A Romanian Medal of Military Virtue; War-Time Issue
1st Class, 1880-1916: Silver gilt, 36.8 mm, original ribbon with hook and eye, contact marks, very fine. Footnote: The medal was created by Prince Alexandru Cuza in 1864 and instituted by Carol I on March 27, 1872, to be awarded to non-commissioned officers for twelve years of distinguished service. The war-time version was instituted on November 25, 1880, the gold (gilt) version for officers. A Decree of September 26, 1916 reserved the award for lower ranks (officers being awarded the Order of Michael the Brave) and it was the highest ranking Romanian cross or medal.

