German Awards - Military Merit Cross with Swords 1st Class 1939

This cross was established on October 18 by the Führer and 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 zinc, with raised smooth edges. The inner sides of the cross sleeves are granular. In the center is an embossed round shield (15 mm). Through the middle are crossed 2 swords. 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 manufacturer - 4 - for Steinhauer & Luck, Lüdenscheid.

Photos of www.militaria-berlin.de