*German, WWII, War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern), 1939 Issue, Zinc Construction, Original Ribbon*
A good and original Second World War German War Merit Cross, 2nd Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern), instituted on 1st September 1939 to recognise meritorious service contributing to the German war effort under conditions connected with combat.
The decoration is of classic Maltese cross form with finely pebbled arms, the obverse centred with a wreathed swastika. The presence of crossed swords denotes the combatant award, given for bravery or merit carried out under fire or in direct support of front-line operations, distinguishing it from the non-combatant version without swords. The reverse is dated 1939, marking the year of institution. This example is of typical mid-to-late war manufacture in zinc, originally finished with a bronze wash, now worn to a subdued grey tone as commonly encountered. The detailing across the cross, swords and central wreath remains well defined, with honest age and service wear throughout.
The medal retains its suspension loop and ring, which is unmarked, a feature frequently seen on later wartime production. It is complete with its original ribbon, displaying the correct red, white and black striped pattern, now showing light fraying and age-related fading.
A solid and genuine example of one of the most recognisable German decorations of the Second World War.
History Note: The War Merit Cross was introduced at the beginning of the Second World War to reward contributions to the German war effort across both military and civilian spheres. The version with swords was specifically awarded for services performed under combat conditions or in direct support of military operations. As material shortages increased during the war, production shifted from tombac to zinc, resulting in the toned and worn appearance commonly seen on surviving examples today.
*Condition* Good original condition. Zinc construction with expected age-related oxidation and wear to the original bronze finish. Some light surface corrosion visible. Details remain clear. Suspension ring unmarked. Ribbon original but with fraying and wear at the edges. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
