#100 • Bavarian Military Merit Cross: Lot of Five

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

High bid $160.00

Status: Sold

Bavarian Military Merit Cross: Lot of Five. Collection of 5 Bavarian Military Merit Crosses including; 1.) Bavarian Military Merit Cross, 2nd class with swords. Medal enamel exhibits no chips. Medal presents proper ribbon. 2.) Bavarian Military Merit Cross,3rd class with swords. Medal presents proper ribbon. 3.) Bavarian Military Merit Cross,3rd class with swords. Medal presents proper ribbon in parade mount configuration. 4.) Bavarian Military Merit Cross,3rd class with crown. Medal presents proper ribbon. 5.) Bavarian Military Merit Cross,3rd class. Medal presents blue and white ribbon (wear, fraying and splitting). Most medals are World War I period and exhibit some wear. Estimate: $150 - $250 Historical Background: The Bavarian Military Merit Cross was a decoration of the Kingdom of Bavaria, established on July 19, 1866, by King Ludwig II. It was awarded for bravery or military merit, primarily to enlisted soldiers, although civilians acting in support of the army were also eligible. The medal is described as a Maltese cross with a center medallion, and could be awarded with or without swords (for wartime merit) and with or without a royal crown. Over time, the distinction in classes was based on the rank of the recipient. A significant revision in 1913 divided the Military Merit Cross into three classes. The old non-enameled 2nd Class became the 3rd Class (changed from silver to bronze), and the old 1st Class became the 2nd Class. The Bavarian Military Merit Cross is now considered obsolete. It holds historical significance, with several notable recipients including figures like Sepp Dietrich and Heinrich Müller. The cross was a key military decoration presented by the Kingdom of Bavaria, and its legacy is characterized by its straightforward recognition of military contributions. It is sometimes mentioned in relation to other contemporary medals, such as the Prussian Iron Cross and the Silver Bravery Medal.