A Bavarian Military Merit Cross; 3rd Class with Swords

A textbook example of a 3rd Class Bavarian Military Cross with Swords; maltese cross with crossed swords above the upper arm; the obverse with a circular central medallion with the cypher of King Ludwig III, surrounded by a ring inscribed “Merenti” (Merit); the reverse bearing the Bavarian crowned lion circumscribed by a buckled belt dated “1866”; on a loop for suspension; with a correct replacement ribbon; measuring 48.96 mm x 41.55 mm; weighing 20.2 grams; extremely fine condition.