War Merit Cross First Class with Swords by L/12 (C.E. Juncker Berlin)

The War Merit Cross 1939 was awarded for merit that did not fall under the classic front-line combat decorations. The 1st Class with Swords indicates awards connected with service and achievement under wartime conditions or within the military sphere.

The version with swords differs clearly from the non-swords variants and is an important distinction for collectors. Details such as the vaulted form, the material used, the surface finish and above all the maker mark are of major importance in evaluation and attribution.

The mark L/12 identifies C.E. Juncker, Berlin, a well-known producer of decorations from this period. Well-preserved examples with clear markings, coherent non-ferrous metal construction and a complete reverse setup remain desirable collector’s items in the field of German awards and decorations.