War Merit Cross 2nd Class without Swords (Kriegsverdienst Kreuz 2. Klasse ohne Schwerter). The War Merit Cross was instituted by Adolf Hitler on 18 October 1939 in two classes with both classes issued, with and without swords, for award to military personnel and civilians. The cross is not visible maker marked but can be attributed to production by the company of 'Deschler & Sohn' from München. The cross is in mint and unissued condition and comes with its original 24cms long sized ribbon and fragile paper tissue as found. This cross originates from the famous 'Deschler' hoard. Nice original cross in good unissued condition!