War Merit Cross (Kriegsverdienstkreuz) – Zinc Construction
In worn condition, with minimal remaining finish consistent with the base material.
Reverse features a tombak fitting, soldered in place, retaining much of the original finish at the fitting and solder points.
Marked with the “3” PKZ code in a square, identifying Wilhelm Deumert as the manufacturer.
The German War Merit Cross (Kriegsverdienstkreuz) was instituted by Adolf Hitler on 18 October 1939 to recognize both military and civilian contributions to the war effort. The decoration existed in multiple grades: 2nd Class and 1st Class, each available with or without swords. The version with swords was awarded for military merit, while the non-sword variant recognized civilian services, including healthcare, administration, diplomacy, and other official duties. The highest grade was the Knight’s Cross, reserved for particularly outstanding achievements.
