Physical Description

A circular medal constructed of gold or bronze gilt. The obverse bears the bust of Maximilian Joseph, with the inscription "MAXIMILIAN IOSEPH KOENIG VON BAIERN". The reverse bears the image of a crowned Bavarian lion with a sword and shield and the inscription "DER TAPFERKEIT" (for bravery). On a loop for suspension with a black, white and light blue striped ribbon.

History

The Military Merit Medal was established by Karl Theodor, Prince Elector, Count Palatine, and Duke of Bavaria to recognise brave and extraordinary acts by members of the Bavarian Military.

The medal was the highest possible award for Non-Commissioned personnel in the Bavarian Military. It could be awarded to entire companies, squadrons, commanders, and volunteers.

If individuals already possessed the Gold Military Merit Medal they were awarded a gift of money. Recipients of the medals were granted allowances; recipients of the gold medal received a whole month's salary and recipients of the silver medal received a half month's salary.

The medal was renewed after Elector Max IV took office. It was awarded during the wars of 1800 and 1805.

The medal was renewed again after Elector Max IV accepted the royal dignity, becoming Maximilian Joseph, King of Bavaria. The Type III medal bore the inscription of the new royal dignity.

The Type IV medal was reissued on the occasion of the war in 1871 and again for World War I.