WW2 Original German War Merit Cross With Swords 2nd Class & Ribbon By Moritz Hhausch
SKU: 699
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Moritz Hausch A.G., Pforzheim
Manufacturer Year: 1939
Size / Dimensions: Approximately 48 mm x 48 mm
Materials / Construction: Tombak / Bronze alloy with silver-toned finish
Markings: 177
Condition: Excellent
Price: $195.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: EM70
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This Original World War II German War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords, manufactured by Moritz Hausch A.G., Pforzheim, a respected Third Reich-era medal maker known for producing a variety of state awards and decorations. This example remains in excellent collector condition and includes its original red, white, and black ribbon, making it a desirable addition to any advanced German militaria collection.
The War Merit Cross with Swords was instituted by Adolf Hitler on October 18, 1939 and was awarded to military personnel for meritorious service in support of the war effort under combat or combat-related conditions, but not meeting the criteria for the Iron Cross. The addition of crossed swords through the center of the medal distinguished it from the non-combat version and indicated service performed in direct connection with military operations.
Historical Background
The Kriegsverdienstkreuz (War Merit Cross) replaced the earlier WWI War Merit decoration and quickly became one of the most widely awarded decorations of the Third Reich. It recognized contributions such as:
- Logistics and supply support under combat conditions
- Engineering or construction in operational zones
- Administrative or technical services supporting front-line units
- Exceptional wartime achievements not directly involving frontline combat
The 2nd Class version was typically worn suspended from its ribbon through the second buttonhole of the tunic.
Manufacturer
Moritz Hausch A.G., Pforzheim was an established German manufacturer specializing in decorations, badges, and precision metalwork during the Third Reich period. Their pieces are known for sharp die work, fine details, and quality silvering/bronze finishes, making them highly sought after among collectors.
Design Details
- Material: Tombak / Bronze alloy with silver-toned finish
- Obverse: Peaked cross pattée with central oak leaf wreath surrounding a mobile swastika, with crossed swords between the arms
- Reverse: Plain with date "1939" at the center
- Ribbon: Original red ribbon with black and white edge stripes
- Manufacturer: Moritz Hausch A.G., Pforzheim
- Class: 2nd Class (with swords – combatant award)
Condition
- Excellent original condition
- Sharp details and crisp edges throughout
- Original finish well preserved
- Includes original period ribbon
- No damage or repairs noted
Dimensions
- Width: approx. 48 mm
- Height: approx. 48 mm
- Weight: approx. 18–22 grams
Collector Notes
The War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords remains one of the most historically significant decorations of the Second World War. Manufacturer-attributed examples from Moritz Hausch are particularly collectible due to the firm's reputation for producing high-quality awards during the wartime period.
This piece represents an excellent example suitable for display, research, or inclusion in an advanced WWII German awards collection.
