Bavaria, Kingdom. A Military Merit Cross, IV Class with Swords, by Gebruder Hemmerle

(Militär-Verdienstkreuz IV. Klasse mit Schwertern). A Maltese Cross constructed of silver, with swords crossed above the upper arm, the obverse central medallion presents the cipher for King Ludwig III, circumscribed by the inscription MERENTI (MERIT), the reverse bears the Bavarian crowned lion circumscribed by a buckled belt, dated 1866, marked 900 on reverse of swords denoting silver content, measuring 40.99 mm (w) x 47.88 mm (h), weighing 25.7 grams, on loop for suspension from original wartime ribbon, and in very fine condition, accompanied by the case of issue, constructed of heavy pressed paper with a textured light blue faux leather (leatherette) exterior, recessed medal bed, functional clasp closure, intact metal hinge, maker marked on interior lid with Gebruder Hemmerle, measuring 59 mm (w) x 75 mm (l) x 21 mm (h), displaying moderate scuffing, and in near fine condition.