Bavaria, Kingdom. An Order of Military Merit, Military Division, III Class Cross by Jacob Leser

(Militär-Verdienstorden, Kreuz III. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 19 July 1866 by King Ludwig II. (1866-1918 issue). Constructed of gilded silver with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with blue enameled arms, joined together through the quadrants by stylized flames, the obverse bearing a central black enameled medallion, overlaid by a gilded monogram of King Ludwig II, set within a white enameled belt and buckle, bearing a gilt inscription of “MERENTI” with arabesques, the reverse bearing a central black enameled medallion, overlaid by a gilded Bavarian lion rampant, set within a white enameled belt and buckle bearing a gilt institution date of “1866” with arabesques, the obverse twelve o’clock arm riveted with a crossed sword clasp and topped by a stylized suspension and loop retaining a period original ribbon, the reverse of the swords maker marked with the logo of Jacob Leser, Straubing, and bearing a silver content number of “900”, with an additional “900” silver mark stamped onto the suspension ring, measuring 40.24 mm (w) x 49.66 mm (h), weighing 26.8 grams, the swords have loosened but remain firmly secured in place, minor flecking is visible to the enamels, and the reverse three o’clock arm demonstrates careful repair of the enamel, in near extremely fine condition.