Germany. A War Merit Cross Second Class with Swords by Franz Lipp of Pforzheim

(Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern). A Maltese cross in bronze metal alloy; on loop for suspension - marked “72” for “Franz Lipp, Pforzheim”; with a period original ribbon - with glue residue on the ribbon from previous collector’s mounting; the obverse with crossed swords between the arms of the cross and a circular raised border of oak leaves on the obverse with a raised mobile swastika in the center; the reverse with a circular raised border of oak leaves bearing the institution date “1939” in raised numbering; measuring 48.00 mm (w) x 48.46 mm (h); weighing 22.1 grams; in overall better than very fine condition.