War Merit Cross 1st Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse mit Schwerter). The War Merit Cross was instituted on 18 October 1939. The basic criteria for award centered about bravery and service (not in connection with combat). The cross is a nice zinc example, the cross lost most of its silver finish. The cross is complete with a functional pin & catch. The cross is not visible maker marked. Nice original cross in good used condition!