Cased War Merit Cross 1st Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse mit Schwerter). The 'Kriegsverdienstkreuz' is 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 which still retains most of its original silver finish, complete with its functional pin & catch. The cross is not visible maker marked but can be attributed to production by the company of 'Klein & Quenzer AG' from Idar-Oberstein. The cross comes in its original black coloured case having a neat silver-coloured 'KvK'-logo with swastika imprinted on the top. The box is matching maker marked 'Klein & Quenzer A.G., Idar-Oberstein 1'. The case is in very good condition with minimal usage to the corners. Nice original set in very good condition!