1939 - 1934 Iron Cross - German 1st Class War Merit with Swords and Swastika Emblem FOR HONESTPINEY

1st Class War Merit with Swords and Swastika Emblem 

This medal was a decoration of Nazi Germany during the second world war, which could be awarded to civilians as well as military personnel.

This award was created by Adolf Hitler in 1939 as a successor to the non-combatant Iron Cross which was used in earlier wars. The award was graded the same as the Iron Cross: War Merit Cross Second Class, War Merit Cross First Class, and Knights Cross of the War Merit Cross. The award had two variants: with swords given to soldiers for exceptional service in battle above and beyond the call of duty (but not worthy of an Iron Cross which was more a bravery award), and without swords for meritorious service behind the lines which could also be awarded to civilians