WW2 German War Merit Medal 1939 Without Swords Full Size

The WW2 German War Merit Medal 1939 Without Swords is a full-size award instituted by the German government on 19 August 1940. It was intended to recognize non-combatant contributions to the war effort during the Second World War. This decoration is circular and made of bronze-colored metal, featuring a Maltese cross with smooth arms and a central medallion. The obverse center displays the date “1939” encircled by a laurel wreath, while the reverse side is plain. The absence of swords on this version signifies that it was awarded for meritorious service in a non-combatant capacity, such as administrative, logistical, or civil support roles rather than front-line action. The medal is suspended from a ribbon bearing red, white, and black stripes. The War Merit Medal without swords was widely presented to civilians and military personnel alike between 1940 and 1945, reflecting the broader contributions vital to sustaining wartime operations.