Description

Here is your chance to pick up a very rare and underappreciated Knights Cross of the War Merit Cross with swords. Awarded only a mere 211 times during the Third Reich. We have here a textbook earlier example as it lacks the die flaw present on the reverse on later examples. “900” and “1” marked on the lowest arm. Full-length wearer’s ribbon. This piece comes with a Dietrich Maerz signed COA.Click HERE to view more images of this item!This is a consignment piece and is subject to the terms and conditions listed on the site. The Knights Cross to the War Merit Cross (Ritterkreuz des Kriegsverdienstkeuzes), was introduced on August 19th, 1940 at the same time as the War Merit Medal.  Its ranking in the German award structure was above the German Cross in Silver and Gold, but below the Knights Cross to the Iron Cross.  It was awarded sparingly over the war years, and because so few were presented the Cross was held in high regards by the Nazi hierarchy, giving it an aura of exclusivity which it may not have fully deserve since it ranked below the Knights grade of Iron Cross.  Great ceremonies were normally staged around recipients, with Hitler almost always presenting the award in front of high ranking Military and party officials.  In the last year of the War, the Knights Cross in Gold was introduced as the highest grade of the War Merit Cross.  Partly due to its late introduction date, this award was presented only a handful of times. Free shipping ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD & I don’t charge PayPal fees like some of the other guys!