Prussia, Kingdom. A Military Merit Medal, I Class Cross

(Militär-Ehrenzeichen, I. Klasse Kreuz). Instituted 30 September 1814 by King Friedrich Wilhelm III. (1814-1864 issue). Constructed of silver, on double loops for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a Cross Pattée with ribbed arms, the obverse bearing a central raised inscription of “VERDIENST UM DEN STAAT” (“SERVICE TO THE STATE”), the reverse bearing a central raised monogram of King Friedrich Wilhelm III, unmarked, measuring 35.75 mm (w) x 40.93 mm (h), weighing 13.6 grams, in extremely fine condition.