Tombak construction cross in patinated condition.
Reverse with non-magnetic hardware, soldered in place.
Unmarked, early example.
The German War Merit Cross (Kriegsverdienstkreuz) was instituted on October 18, 1939, by Adolf Hitler to recognize both military personnel and civilians for meritorious service in the war effort. The decoration existed in multiple grades: 2nd Class and 1st Class, each awarded both with and without swords. The swords version was awarded for military merit, while the version without swords was awarded for civilian services (medical, administrative, diplomatic, and governmental fields). The highest grade was the Knight’s Cross, awarded for particularly outstanding merit.
The War Merit Medal (Kriegsverdienstmedaille) was instituted on October 19, 1940, specifically to recognize civilians and war workers. The purpose of the decoration was to reward those who made outstanding contributions to the German Reich’s war effort outside the front lines, in industry, war production, or public administration.
