Germany Awards - Military Merit Cross 1st Class 1939

The cross was established on 18 October 1939 by Reich Chancellor Adolf Hitler. The cross was awarded in 2 classes for merits that did not justify the award of the Iron Cross. In addition, it was a replacement for the Iron Cross on a non-belligerent ribbon (World War I) and the awards of former individual states for their homeland and civil merits. The cross was awarded with and without swords. Swords were awarded for the use of enemy weapons or special merits in the conduct of war. Without swords, this award was awarded with equal merit without the effect of enemy weapons. Rewarding women was not provided. Since 1941, only women could be awarded the medal "For Military Merit." To be awarded with a cross and even without swords of the 2nd class, the personal consent of Adolf Hitler was required.

Eight-pointed, silver-plated cross made of non-ferrous metal, with raised smooth edges. The inner sides of the cross sleeves are granular. In the center is an embossed round shield (15 mm). The crosses are slightly curved upward. Back side with vertical pin.

Front side:

• The round central shield is bordered by an oak-leafy wreath.
In
• a surrounded field, an obliquely set swastika.

Downside:

• Smooth and silver plated with a vertical pin.
• On the needle - L/10 - (micro) for Deschler & Son.

Photos of www.militaria-berlin.de