WW2 Original German War Merit Cross With Swords 2nd Class & Ribbon

SKU: 672

Original/Reproduction: Original

Availability: In-stock

Manufacturer: 

Manufacturer Year: 1939

Size / Dimensions: Approximately 48 mm x 48 mm

Materials / Construction: Bronzed tombak 

Condition: Excellent

Price: $175.00

Seller Type: WW2C

Seller ID: JMW

Seller Code: EM50

Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.

Description

This Original WWII German War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern) is an authentic Third Reich military decoration awarded during the Second World War for meritorious service in support of the war effort under combat or combat-related conditions. Introduced in 1939 by Adolf Hitler, the War Merit Cross recognized individuals whose service contributed significantly to Germany’s war operations but did not meet the criteria required for the Iron Cross.

This example is presented in excellent condition and retains its original red, white, and black ribbon, making it a desirable and complete collector’s piece from the WWII period.

Historical Background

The War Merit Cross series was instituted on 18 October 1939, replacing the earlier WWI War Merit Cross. It was designed to reward military personnel and civilians who performed valuable services to the war effort.

The “Swords” device signifies that the award was granted for services performed under combat or combat-related circumstances, such as logistical support near the front lines, engineering operations, or other actions carried out while exposed to enemy danger.

Millions of these awards were issued during the war, but original surviving examples in excellent condition with original ribbon remain highly collectible today.

Design & Construction

The decoration features a bronzed tombak or zinc construction depending on the manufacturer and wartime production period.

Obverse Details:

• Classic Maltese-style cross with pebbled arms
• Center medallion displaying a mobile swastika
• Crossed swords placed diagonally behind the center medallion, indicating combat-related service
• Surrounded by an oak leaf wreath

Reverse Details:

• Center medallion with the date “1939”
• Plain reverse arms typical of wartime manufacture

Ribbon

The medal includes its original ribbon, featuring the distinctive:

• Red edges
• White and black central stripes

This ribbon pattern closely resembles that of the Iron Cross but reversed in color arrangement.

Condition

• Excellent overall condition
• Sharp details and strong finish
• Minimal age wear consistent with wartime production
• Original ribbon intact and well preserved
• Displays beautifully as part of any WWII German militaria collection

Specifications

• Award: War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords
• German Title: Kriegsverdienstkreuz II. Klasse mit Schwertern
• Country: Germany (Third Reich)
• Period: World War II (1939–1945)
• Material: Bronze / Zinc alloy (depending on maker)
• Size: Approximately 48 mm x 48 mm
• Ribbon Length: Approximately 30–32 inches (standard issue ribbon)
• Condition: Excellent

Collector Notes

The War Merit Cross with Swords represents an important part of the German WWII award system, recognizing service performed under wartime conditions that supported combat operations. These medals are frequently collected alongside Iron Cross awards, wound badges, and other Wehrmacht decorations, making them an excellent addition to any WWII militaria or German award collection.

Complete examples retaining their original ribbon in excellent condition are especially desirable for collectors and historians alike.