War Merit Cross 1st Class without Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse ohne 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 unissued cross is a nice 'Buntmetall' example, complete with a functional pin & catch, it still retains almost all of its original silver finish and shows polished highlights. The cross is nicely maker marked with number '50' indicating production by the company of 'Karl Gschiermeister' from Wien (Austria). Rare and desirable cross in very good condition!