Cased Bavarian Order of Military Merit 4th Class

[Hagrid]

Hello fellow collectors!
Let me introduce to you my latest find, directly from the family:
The order is in pretty good condition and shows only a minor chip to the frontside enamel at the 9-o´clock-arm.
Interesting is the (possibly scarce?) maroon cardboard case it came in: Neutral, with no imprints about the contents or the maker, white inlet still with it. I guess this makes it a late war example...
The miniature chain was purchased later during the 30ies, because it has the Hindenburg-Cross attached.
I hope you like it as much as I do!
Regards
Hagrid

[Don D.]

A nice late war piece. What are the markings on the reverse side of the sword blades?

[Hagrid]

Hi Don!
It´s a "900"
Regards
Hagrid

[Don D.]

Can you do a better shot of the reverse side please.

[Heran]

I believe it is a late MVO made by Weiss & Co.

[Hagrid]

I hope these pictures are sufficient...
beautyful things but hard to photograph!
Regards
Hagrid

[VtwinVince]

Nice one, and not so common in the Schiebe-Etui.

[Don D.]

Note the markings on the award just above where the swords attach. WC and a silver content 9??. You were correct for Weiss & Co.

[RichW.]

Bmvo

Where does this fit in order of distinction. Is it an EK2 equivilant for officers, or higher?

[Don D.]

Not quite the same Rich. Since it was only awarded to junior officers it was more the entry level award for them. The EK series awards was awarded to officers and enlisted men. As a State award it was considered equal or lower than the EK depending upon who you asked and codified as lower in the 1934 ranking of awards. A Bavarian of course, might have a different opinion.

[Brian L.]

Note the markings on the award just above where the swords attach. WC and a silver content 9??. You were correct for Weiss & Co.

950 silver on the cross and 900 on the swords which are the usual silver content marks for Weiss & Co. crosses even on late crosses.

[Hagrid]

950 silver on the cross and 900 on the swords which are the usual silver content marks for Weiss & Co. crosses even on late crosses.

May I add that the medaillons are made of gilded silver as well - in contrast to the earlier ones made of gold.

Regards
Hagrid