German WWII War Merit Cross 1st Class w/Swords Iron Crosses and another on the left

and another on the left side of the reverse

The collar tabs are cornflower blue badge cloth with silver bullion wreath and single gull along with a silver bullion twist rope piping

There is some slight discoloration on the reverse

In the hip pocket

This was issued in several versions to honor those who defended the region against invaders

German WWII War Merit Cross 1st Class w/Swords Iron Crosses and another on the leftGerman WWII War Merit Cross 1st Class w Swords This is a handsome badge. It has lost all of its original silver finish. The zinc has toned to a nice dark gray color. This badge is slightly vaulted giving it a nice look. The details are strong on the obverse. There is a block hinge, round wire catch, and tapered pin that functions as intended. The pin is marked with a number 4 indicating production by Steinhauer & Luck of Ldenscheid. The pin assembly