Cased 1st Class War Merit with Swords by 3

German WWII > Awards and Medals > War Merit Series > 1st Class War Merit

Here we have a great cased example of a 1st Class War Merit Cross by 3! It is constructed out of a die struck, zinc-alloy base that has been silver washed. The obverse depicts a pebbled Maltese style cross with two crossed broad swords and a wreathed swastika to the center. The reverse shows a full back and is maker marked “3” (Wilhelm Deumer, Lüdenscheid). It also has the correct; rectangular plate block hinge, soldered round plate round wire catch and coke bottle pin. They are still yet in well working condition! Some of the silver wash remains intact. It shows minor calcification. The case is made of wood and pressed cardboard, with a simulated, black leather covering. The top features an emblem of a 1st Class War Merit Cross with Swords. The interior top lid is lined in pearl satin and has an underlying pad. The bottom interior of the case is made of a black felt covering over cardboard and outlines the pin, hinge and catch. The case was touched up with a bit of wax to clean it up. It has some pressure marks throughout yet looks excellent! A good cross and a great case!