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 'Buntmetall' example, complete with a functional pin & catch. The cross is not visible maker marked but can very likely be attributed to the company of 'Julius Bauer & Söhne' from Zella Mehlis. Nice original cross in very good condition!