War Merit Cross with Swords 1st Class – Cased – Klein & Quenzer A.G.

This award was created by Adolf Hitler in 1939 as a successor to the non-combatant Iron Cross which was used in earlier wars. The award was graded the same as the Iron Cross: War Merit Cross Second Class, War Merit Cross First Class, and Knights Cross of the War Merit Cross. The award had two variants: with swords given to soldiers for exceptional service in battle above and beyond the call of duty (but not worthy of an Iron Cross which was more a bravery award), and without swords for meritorious service behind the lines which could also be awarded to civilians.

This example was manufactured by one of the best makers Klein & Quenzer A.G. Unfortunately the silver wash has eroded away but all the pebbling and central swastika are crisp and sharp. The case is in excellent condition with the black velvet seating just perfect. The white silk lid lining is stain free and marked with the make Klein & Quenzer A.G. Idar-Oberstein.

A nice set and slightly cheaper than most cased 1st Class War Merit Crosses with Swords due to the lack of the silver wash.