#104 • Brunswick War Merit Cross: Lot of Four

Part of British & World Medals (live auction by Bannerman Auctions)

High bid $300.00

Status: Sold

Brunswick War Merit Cross: Lot of Four. Grouping of 4 Brunswick War Merit Crosses including 1.) Brunswick War Merit Cross First Class. Medal exhibits toning and is in excellent condition. 2.) Brunswick War Merit Cross First Class. Medal exhibits toning and is in excellent condition. 3.) Brunswick War Merit Cross Second Class. Medal exhibits toning and some slight corrosion is in very good condition and presents proper ribbon (wear and soiling). 4.) Brunswick War Merit Cross Second Class. Medal exhibits toning, is in very good condition and presents proper ribbon (wear and soiling). Estimate: $250 - $350 Historical Background: The Brunswick War Merit Cross (Braunschweigisches Kriegsverdienstkreuz) was a military decoration established by the Duchy of Brunswick on October 23, 1914, by Duke Ernest Augustus. It was awarded for distinction in war, primarily during World War I, and was no longer awarded after 1918. The cross was instituted to bring the Brunswick state award in line with similar decorations from other German states, such as the Prussian Iron Cross. It was presented in two classes, and the ribbon color varied based on whether the recipient was a combatant or non-combatant. The combatants' ribbon was blue with yellow stripes, while the non-combatants' ribbon was yellow with blue stripes. The decoration itself is a bronze cross pattée. The obverse features the letters "EA" for Duke Ernest Augustus at its center, with sprays of oak leaves on the horizontal arms. The Brunswick crown is displayed on the top arm of the cross, and the date "1914" is inscribed on the lower arm. The reverse of the cross bears the inscription "Für Verdienst im Kriege" (For Merit in War), appearing in three lines on the top, horizontal, and lower arms, respectively. While initially intended for junior non-commissioned officers and enlisted soldiers from Brunswick, eligibility was later expanded, eventually requiring no direct Brunswick connection.