Merit Cross, Military Division

CATEGORY: Version

SKU: 02.WUT.0101.201.01.001

Estimated market value:

$200 USD

  • Merit Cross, Military Division Obverse
  • Merit Cross, Military Division Obverse
  • Merit Cross, Military Division Reverse

Estimated market value:

$200 USD

Attributes

  • Country
    Germany
  • Makers
    Eduard Foehr, Stuttgart; Württemberg Royal Mint, Stuttgart
  • Composition
    Silver/Bronze
  • Inscription
    Obv: W Rev: VERDIENST
  • Size
    32mm

Physical Description and Item Details


Constructed of silver, with silver gilt crossed swords between the arms of the cross; the obverse inscribed with the crowned royal monogram of William; the reverse inscribed “VERDIENST”; on a double loop for suspension from its period original ribbon; measuring 31.52 mm (w) x 36.15 mm (h); weighing 9.6 grams; in better than very fine condition.

History


The Merit Cross (Verdienstkreuz) was instituted on July 2, 1900 by King Wilhelm II of Württemberg. It was awarded to recognise a wide range of meritorious services and achievements.

As of January 29, 1915, crossed swords could be to the Cross to recognise military merit in wartime. The decorations with crossed swords were generally awarded to military personnel, such as senior non-commissioned officers and Sergeant Lieutenants who had already been awarded the Iron Cross.

The crosses were manufactured by Eduard Foehr in Stuttgart from 1900 to 1915 and by the Württemberg Royal Mint in Stuttgart from 1915 to 1918.

The Cross ranked between the Merit Medal of the Order of the Württemberg Crown and the II Class Knight’s Cross of the Friedrich Order. Until the establishment of the Wilhelmkreuz in 1915, the Merit Cross was the highest ranking decoration for honour in Württemberg.

The Merit Cross was awarded a total of 2,284 times.

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