BACKGROUND: The War Merit Cross was instituted by Adolf Hitler on October 18^TH 1939, in two classes with both classes issued, with and without swords, for award to military personnel and civilians, including females and foreigners, for exemplary service and/or bravery in Germany’s war effort, in a non-combatant role. The addition of swords to the award signified bravery while awards without swords were bestowed for service. Of Note: The War Merit cross series of awards was expanded on August 19^TH 1940, to include a Knight’s Cross of the War Merit Cross for award to personnel who had provided a substantial contribution to the war effort and the War Merit Medal for award to German nationals and foreign civilians who provided exceptional service to the war effort. The 2^ND class award was issued suspended from a ribbon in the German national colors. Generally the War Merit Cross 2^ND class was only worn on the day of bestowal or on a medal bar for dress or ceremonial occasions resulting in the ribbon being worn on a day to day basis on the field blouse.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Roughly, 5/8" wide, 31' 11" long, horizontally ribbed, woven rayon ribbon features a central, black, vertical, base with narrow, red, outer and narrow, white, inner edge stripes. The ribbon is in overall excellent, unissued condition with minimal age toning. Of Note: The narrow width of the ribbon would indicate it was intended for use on a ribbon bar or a miniature award.