Military Merit Cross, Type II (1914-1918)

SKU: 02.BRU.0112.101.02

Estimated market value:

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  • Military Merit Cross, Type II (1914-1918) Obverse
  • Military Merit Cross, Type II (1914-1918) Reverse

Attributes

  • country
    Germany
  • date of institution
    August 14, 1914
  • remarks
    This version of the Military Merit Cross was instituted on August 18, 1914.

Physical Description


A Bath cross constructed of silver gilt. The obverse centre bears the crowned monogram "EA" on a pebbled background. The reverse centre bears the inscription "KRIEGS VERDIENST" (war merit), and below are two sprigs of laurel. On a loop for suspension, on a red ribbon with yellow stripes.

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.

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Versions

  • Price

    $1,600 USD

  • Composition

    Silver gilt

  • Inscription

    Obv: KRIEGS VERDIENST Rev: EA

  • Size

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

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