Physical Description

A Bath cross constructed of silver. The obverse bears a central circular medallion with the image of a crowned eagle. The arms of the cross are inscribed with "L JAHRE TREUE DIENSTE" (50 years of loyal service). The reverse centre bears a circular medallion with the date "1840", encompassed by a wreath of laurel. The cross is topped with a crown and is on a loop for suspension, on a red ribbon with white stripes.

History

The Long Service Cross was instituted by the Senate of the Free City of Frankfurt on December 15, 1840. The cross was conferred upon army personnel who had rendered long and meritorious service between the years 1840 and 1866. Time in war and years spent wounded counted for double. The Type II Crosses were instituted on July 6, 1841. The Silver Cross for 50 Years was conferred upon Non-Commissioned Officers and Enlisted Men.