German WWII War Merit Cross 2nd Class w/o Swords

German WWII War Merit Cross 2ndClass w/o Swords-This war merit cross has lost the majority of its original finish. The remaining zinc has toned to a gray color. A sound example.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.