Bavaria, Kingdom. An Order of Military Merit, IV Class with Swords, by Jacob Leser, c.1914

(Militärverdiestorden Kreuz 4. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted on 19 July 1866 by King Ludwig II. (Issued 1905-1918). A finely enameled blue Maltese cross in silver, with frosted silver flames in each quadrant, with crossed silver swords on the 12 o'clock arm, obverse centre with gilt and crown "L" (King Ludwig II) on a black enameled field, with surround presenting motto “MERENTI” (“THE MERIT”) in silver, reverse presents a Bavarian lion in silver over a black enameled field, with white enamel surround presenting institution year “1866,” swords with maker’s mark “J.L.” denoting Jacob Leser and silver hallmark “900,” measuring 40.54 mm (w) x 49.54 mm (h - inclusive of horizontal ring suspension), weighs 27.5 grams, with original ribbon from medal bar, a fine example, better than extremely fine.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.