Description
Germany War Merit Cross, 1st Class without Swords, with Presentation Case
(Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse ohne Schwerter)
An original example of the War Merit Cross 1st Class without Swords, presented in its original issue case and attributed to manufacture by Klein & Quenzer AG, Idar-Oberstein, whose maker marking is visible on the interior lining of the case.
The War Merit Cross was instituted in 1939 to recognize outstanding service to the German war effort not involving direct combat. The without swords variant was awarded to both military personnel in non-combatant roles and civilians who made significant contributions, including industrial, administrative, or technical service. Recipients were required to have previously been awarded the Second Class before qualifying for the First Class.
The decoration is of die-struck bronze construction with an original bronze wash finish. The obverse displays a pebbled Maltese-style cross, with a central oak wreath enclosing a mobile swastika. The reverse is plain, as issued for First Class awards, and fitted with appropriate pinback hardware.
The award is housed in its original presentation case, which remains well preserved. The case interior correctly bears the Klein & Quenzer AG maker marking, further supporting period authenticity.
A desirable and well-documented example of a non-combatant Third Reich merit award, complete with its original presentation case and from a recognized wartime manufacturer.
