Bavaria – Knight’s Cross 2nd Class with Swords, Military Merit Order (1866)

The Bavarian Militär-Verdienstorden (Military Merit Order) was the kingdom’s principal decoration for bravery and distinguished service below the level of the Military Max Joseph Order. First established in 1866 by King Ludwig II during the Austro-Prussian War, it was Bavaria’s response to the need for a gallantry award that could be granted more widely across the officer corps and senior NCOs.

This example is the Knight’s Cross 2nd Class with Swords, denoting a wartime bestowal. The decoration is a finely struck bronze-gilt cross pattée with pebbled arms. The obverse center medallion features a raised royal crown above the cipher “L” for King Ludwig II, encircled by a white enameled ring bearing the motto MERENTI (“For Merit”). The enamel remains intact, with only the most minor age wear. Above the cross sits a hollow Bavarian crown with crisp detail and an integral suspension ring. Crossing through the crown are two finely executed gilt swords with ribbed hilts and ball finials, denoting the decoration was awarded specifically for combat merit rather than peacetime service.

The reverse displays a central medallion with the date “1866” and the Bavarian rampant lion in high relief, surrounded by a stippled ground. The reverse crown and sword fittings remain tight and original.

The order retains its original Bavarian light blue ribbon with thin black and white edge stripes, showing honest age fraying at the top fold and some wear at the tie-point but remaining complete. The colors are still vibrant.

Condition: Very good overall. Gilt finish has mellowed with age, showing attractive patination. The enamel motto ring is free of cracks or repairs. Crown and sword fittings are secure. Ribbon is original, exhibiting wear consistent with age and light use.

Collector’s Note: Awards from the 1866 Austro-Prussian War are considerably scarcer than those from 1870–71 or WWI. Surviving Bavarian knight’s crosses of this period with intact enamel and original ribbon are highly desirable. This example displays excellent preservation, with no replacement parts or repairs.