Bavaria, Kingdom. A Military Service Cross, I Class for 40 Years of Service

(Dienstauszeichnungskreuz 1. Klasse). Instituted on 3 March 1865. (1865-1918 Issue). A silver cross pattée with scalloped ends and ball-tipped finials centrally located on the cross arm ends, the obverse centre presenting a central shield bearing the coat of arms of Bavaria in blue and white enamels within a green-enamelled laurel wreath, the reverse centre presents a blue-enamelled shield bearing the inscription XL DIENST JAHRE in silver letters within a green-enamelled laurel wreath, measuring 45.89 mm (w) x 46.22 mm (h), on loop for suspension from a period original ribbon, and in near extremely fine condition.