German WWII War Merit Cross 1st Class w/Swords

German WWII War Merit Cross 1st Class w/Swords- This example has minor wear and has lost the majority of its finish, but it has great details.  This example is marked with the number “4”, indicating production by Steinhauer & Luck of Lüdenscheid. This is a handsome badge.  History: The War Merit Cross was instituted in October 1939, in two classes with both classes issued, with and without swords. These were awarded to military personnel and civilians, including females and foreigners, for exemplary service and/or bravery in Germany’s war effort, in a non-combatant role. The addition of swords to the award signified bravery while awards without swords were bestowed for service.