WH Cased War Merit Award 1st Class with Swords

War Merit Cross 1st Class with Swords in Case – Deschler & Söhne, München

The War Merit Cross 1st Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse mit Schwertern) was instituted on October 18, 1939, as a decoration for military personnel who demonstrated exceptional service or merit that did not involve direct combat, but contributed to the war effort. The addition of swords to the award signified that the recipient performed their duties under combat conditions or in a combat zone.

This example is a finely preserved early war variant produced by the prestigious firm Deschler & Sohn of Munich—a well-known manufacturer of high-quality decorations during the Third Reich period. The cross is made of tombak and features a crisp pebble-textured surface with finely detailed swords and central swastika emblem, surrounded by a laurel wreath.

Housed in its original black presentation case with silver printed motif on the lid, the interior is lined with black velvet and white silk, and features the maker’s mark “Deschler & Sohn München” on the inside lid.

This award, unlike its combat counterpart the Iron Cross, was designed to recognize the often-overlooked contributions made in administration, logistics, medical services, and other critical support roles. As such, it holds historical value for understanding the broader structure and recognition system of the German war machine during World War II.