Original WWII German War Merit Cross With Swords, zinc construction with some corrosion; ribbon measures approximatly 4 1/2 inches.
 
The "Kriegsverdienstkreuz II mit Schwertern" was instituted on October 18th 1939, in two classes, with and without swords, for both military personnel and civilians, for exemplary service or bravery in a non-combatant role.