Physical Description

The 1879 cross is a straight-armed cross pattée constructed of gold. The obverse centre bears a crowned "W". The reverse centre bears the inscription "KRIEGSVERDIENST" (war merit) with two oak leaves below. On a loop for suspension.

History

The Military Merit Cross was established by Duke Wilhelm of Brunswick on December 11, 1879. The medal was conferred upon Non-Commissioned Officers and Enlisted Men who demonstrated bravery and valour. Only one example of the Military Merit Cross was made from gold. There is no evidence to suggest that this cross was ever awarded.

In 1914, Duke Ernst August re-established and remodelled the cross. Only a few crosses were produced and, once again, there is limited evidence to suggest that these crosses were ever awarded.

In 1918, the cross was divided into two classes, I Class (with a pinback) and II Class. The award was conferred upon individuals who demonstrated bravery under fire. Originally, only natives of Brunswick who had received the Prussian Iron Cross or an equivalent Bavarian decoration were eligible to receive the cross. Eventually, soldiers who served in Brunswick’s units, but were not natives of Brunswick, became eligible to receive the award.