Nassau, Duchy. An Order of Civil and Military Merit, Silver Merit Cross, c.1865

(Herzoglich Nassauischer Militär-und Zivilverdienstorden, Silbernes Verdienstkreuz). Instituted 8 May 1858 by Duke Adolph. (1860-1866 issue). Constructed of silver, on loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon, consisting of a Maltese Cross with pebbled arms and ball finials, the obverse with a raised central monogram of Grand Duke Adolph, within a laurel wreath and above an inscription of “VIRTUTE” (“VIRTUE”), the reverse with raised central dates of “1292-1858”, unmarked, measuring 30.74 mm (w) x 30.88 mm (h), weighing 16.6 grams (inclusive of ribbon), in near extremely fine condition.