Original WW2 German War Merit Cross With Swords 1st Class By Deschler & Sohn in Munich
SKU: 700
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Deschler & Sohn, Munich
Manufacturer Year: 1939
Size / Dimensions: Approximate size: 48 mm x 48 mm
Weight: approx. 20–25 grams (varies slightly depending on production run)
Materials / Construction: Tombak / Bronze alloy with silver-toned finish
Condition: Excellent
Price: $195.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: EM100
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This original WW2 German War Merit Cross 1st Class with Swords was manufactured by the well-known Munich firm Deschler & Sohn, one of the Third Reich’s premier medal makers responsible for producing many high-quality decorations for the German armed forces.
Features
- Type: War Merit Cross 1st Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse mit Schwertern)
- Manufacturer: Deschler & Sohn, Munich
- Construction: Multi-piece construction with detailed crossed swords between the arms of the cross
- Material: Tombak / zinc alloy with silvered finish (typical wartime Deschler production)
- Attachment: Vertical pin-back with functional hinge, pin, and catch assembly
- Design: Peaked cross pattée with a central wreathed swastika, flanked by finely detailed crossed swords symbolizing wartime merit under combat conditions
Condition
This example remains in excellent condition, retaining much of its original silvered finish and sharp detail throughout the cross and swords. The reverse hardware is intact and fully functional, with the pin assembly operating properly. The piece shows only light age-related wear consistent with careful storage and preservation over the past 80+ years.
Historical Background
The War Merit Cross 1st Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse mit Schwertern) was instituted on 18 October 1939 by Adolf Hitler to recognize outstanding wartime service and acts of merit that did not necessarily involve direct combat with the enemy. The 1st Class with Swords was awarded for exceptional leadership, bravery, or meritorious service performed under combat conditions by both military personnel and civilians contributing to the war effort.
The War Merit Cross series replaced the earlier Prussian Merit Crosses and became one of the most widely awarded decorations of the Third Reich. The 1st Class was worn as a pin-back decoration on the left breast pocket of the uniform and represented a significant level of recognition for service to the German war effort.
The addition of crossed swords distinguished awards granted for service performed under wartime or combat-related conditions, while the version without swords was awarded for purely civil or non-combat contributions.
Collector Notes
Deschler & Sohn decorations are highly regarded among collectors for their quality manufacturing, crisp die work, and historical authenticity. Examples of the War Merit Cross 1st Class with Swords from this maker remain a desirable addition to advanced WW2 German medal and militaria collections.
This piece represents an excellent opportunity to acquire a well-preserved example of a classic Third Reich wartime decoration produced by one of the era’s most respected medal manufacturers.
