Bavaria, Kingdom. An Exquisite Order of St. Michael, III Class Cross in Gold, by Weiss & Co.

(Verdienstorden vom Heiligen Michael Kreuz III. Klasse). Instituted 16 February 1837 by King Ludwig I. (1887-1918 issue). Constructed of 18k Gold with enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée with blue enameled arms set within a Gold frame, the obverse bearing a central oval Gold medallion bearing a finely-detailed depiction of St. Michael trampling the devil, with the former’s shield featuring a blue enameled inscription of “QUIS ET DEUS” (“WHO IS LIKE GOD”), the reverse bearing a central circular Gold medallion overlaid by a blue enameled inscription of “VIRTUTI” (“VIRTUE”), the twelve o’clock arm topped by a swivel hinge connecting to a crown suspension with a loop retaining a period original tri-fold ribbon, double-marked between the quadrant of the three and six o’clock arms and the suspension loop with the log of Weiss & Co., Munich, with a finesse number of “750” indicating 18k Gold composition, measuring 36.23 mm (w) x 61.61 mm (h) (inclusive of crown suspension), weighing 20.6 grams (inclusive of ribbon), a striking example of the award in near mint condition.