Unissued War Merit Cross 2nd Class without swords.
In original wrapping paper, with original ribbon.
Suspension ring marked with PKZ code “1” (Deschler & Sohn).
The German War Merit Cross (Kriegsverdienstkreuz) was instituted on 18 October 1939 by Adolf Hitler to recognize both military and civilian merit in the war effort. The decoration existed in several grades: 2nd Class and 1st Class, each awarded with or without swords. The swords version was awarded for military merit, while the non-swords version recognized civilian services (medical, administrative, diplomatic, clerical). The highest grade was the Knight’s Cross, awarded for exceptional merit.
The War Merit Medal (Kriegsverdienstmedaille) was instituted on 19 October 1940, specifically to recognize civilian personnel and war workers contributing outside the front line, in industry, armaments production, or administration.
