Bavaria, Kingdom. A Miniature Order of Merit of the Crown in Gold, Knight’s Cross, c.1900
(Verdienstorden der Bayerischen Krone, Ritterkreuz Miniatur). Instituted 19 March 1808. (1808-1918 issue). Constructed of Gold with multi-coloured enamels, with a hollow crown and suspension loop, consisting of an eight-armed star with white enameled arms, the obverse with a central raised profile of Maximilian I. Joseph, within a red enameled ring bearing a gilt inscription of “MAX. REX BOIOAR”, the reverse centerpiece with an enameled Bavarian flag bearing a gilt crown, within a red enameled ring bearing a gilt inscription of “VIRTUS ET HONOS” (“VIRTUE AND HONOUR”), within green enameled oak leaves joining the quadrants, the suspension loop with an illegible maker’s mark, measuring 14.29 mm (w) x 22.48 mm (h), weighing 2.2 grams, in extremely fine condition.

