War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords, without maker's mark (non-ferrous metal)

War Merit Cross 2nd Class (KVK) with Swords . The cross is made of non-ferrous metal. It is in very good, almost unworn condition. There is no maker's mark on the suspension ring, but it is a known variant. The cross is attached to its original ribbon section.

Background and meaning of the War Merit Cross 2nd Class
As a supplement to the Iron Cross, the War Merit Cross 2nd Class was introduced in October 1939. While the Iron Cross required combat with weapons on the front line, this new award recognized important service in the background.

The award ceremony took place in two different formats:

With swordsThis award was given to soldiers in rear-echelon units who, while not directly involved in the assault, were nevertheless exposed to dangers from enemy artillery or air attacks. Typical recipients were medics, engineers, radio operators, or logistics personnel.
Without swords: This variant was reserved for people who distinguished themselves without direct threat in the safe hinterland or in the domestic arms industry.

Among the soldiers at the front, however, the order did not enjoy a high reputation. Since it was awarded en masse away from the main battle lines, the troops often mocked it. Names like the classic "Rear-Deployment Order" or the derisive "Hero's Cross" quickly became common, while in everyday service the order was usually abbreviated simply as "KVK".

– Authenticity: Original, with unlimited guarantee; we will confirm this with a photo report upon request.

– Legal: Sale only under strict compliance with Sections 86 and 86a of the German Criminal Code (StGB) for the purpose of civic education, defense against unconstitutional activities, art or science, research or teaching, reporting on current events or history, or similar purposes.