*German, WW2, War Merit Cross 1st Class - Kriegsverdienstkreuz - without Swords*
Instituted on October 18, 1939, the War Merit Cross 1st Class without Swords was awarded for meritorious service behind the lines. It was given to military personnel in administrative, medical, or other non-combat roles, as well as to civilians who made significant contributions to the war effort. The award was open to civilians of all ages and social classes, from diplomats to factory workers.
The medal is made from die-struck nickel-silver with a silver wash. The obverse features a centrally placed mobile swastika surrounded by an oak leaf wreath, tied at the top and bottom, above a pebbled Maltese-style cross. The reverse has a full back with a soldered-on block hinge, a rectangular wire catch, and a coke bottle pin.
*Condition*
Excellent used condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
