Physical Description

A straight armed cross pattée constructed of silver, gold, and enamels. The obverse centre bears a circular enamelled medallion with a red cross on a white background encompassed by a blue border. The reverse bears a central circular medallion with the crowned cipher "L" on a ribbed background, encompassed by a blue border with the inscription "1870 1871". Topped with an ornamental arabesque and a loop for suspension. On a light blue ribbon.

History

This Merit Cross for 1870-1871 was established by King Ludwig II on May 12, 1871. It was awarded to men, women, and children who provided exemplary voluntary aid by caring for the sick and wounded during the war.

There is some variation in the shape of the enamelled cross in the medallion of the cross.
The cross was awarded on a sash for princely recipients.
When the cross was awarded to women it was worn on a bow ribbon.