The War Merit Cross (series) was established by Adolf Hitler on 18 October 1939 to reward contributions to the war effort; at the time, it consisted of only two grades (1st Class Cross & 2nd Class Cross). This one, second class w/the crossed swords was awarded for extraordinary feats of merit under enemy fire while those without swords was conferred for a variety of non-combative services in support of the war effort. "Merit" in the medal's name distinguishes it from the Iron Cross (awarded for Bravery). This one comes w/its original issue packet displaying the text, "Kriegsverdienstkreu 2. Klasse mit Schwertern" (War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords). Reverse w/maker mark: Carl Poellath Schrobenhausen (a town in Bavaria, Germany) Description: Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse (War Merit Cross 2nd Class) - die-struck zinc alloy, on a loop for suspension & full size period ribbon Obverse - Embossed w/a swastika Reverse - Embossed w/1939 Measurements (approximate): 49mm diameter History: Awarded to both civilians and military depending on the conditions under which the award was earned (feat of merit or performance under enemy fire, performing duty while not under direct enemy fire, etc). Added to the series... August 19, 1940 - War Merit Medal August 28, 1940 - Knight's Cross July 8, 1944 - Golden Knight's Cross All could be conferred with crossed swords, except the War Merit Medal. Note: Multiple in stock...Shipped item may not be exactly as appears in the photos - may contain slight variation in color/standard age wear. ---------------------------------------- WW2 (Nazi Germany) War Merit Cross w/Swords 2nd Class $103.00 (Firm) *Authentic Issue* Established by Adolf Hitler 18 October 1939. Awarded for extraordinary feats of merit under enemy fire ----------------------------------------
