*German, WW2, War Merit Cross First Class with Swords, Maker Marked 62 – by Kerbach & Österhelt Dresden.*
Original War Merit Cross First Class with Swords by Kerbach & Österhelt. The reverse features a barrel hinge with a banjo-style pin and flat wire catch. The inside of the pin is stamped “62” for Kerbach & Österhelt, Dresden. The medal measures 48.85 mm in width and 48.58 mm in height.
Instituted on October 18, 1939, the War Merit Cross with Swords was awarded to military personnel for acts of courage beyond the call of duty that did not qualify for the Iron Cross. These acts included bravery not under direct enemy fire or the planning and leading of combat operations. All military members, regardless of rank, and non-German allies were eligible for this award. The War Merit Cross 1st Class was a pin-backed medal worn on the tunic pocket, similar to the Iron Cross 1st Class. The obverse features a centrally placed mobile swastika surrounded by an oak leaf wreath, tied at the top and bottom, above a pebbled Maltese-style cross with two crossed broad swords extending from its corners.
*Condition*
Excellent used condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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