Mecklenburg-Schwerin, Grand Duchy. A Military Merit Cross I Class, c. 1935

(Militär-Verdienstkreuz I. Klasse). Instituted 28 February 1915 by Grand Duke Friedrich Franz IV. (1915-1924 issue; c. 1935 re-issue). Constructed of gilded zink, the obverse consisting of a Cross Pattée with ribbed and pebbled arms, bearing a centra monogram of Grand Duke Friedrich Franz IV, the six o’clock arm bearing a date of “1914”, the twelve o’clock arm bearing a royal crown, the reverse with a block hinge and banjo-style pinback meeting a round wire catch, unmarked, measuring 40.48 mm (w) x 40.45 mm (h), weighing 14.8 grams, demonstrating near-total loss of gilt finish, a veteran’s replacement piece manufactured c. 1935 in very fine condition.