Rare world war 1 war merit cross Baden Germany

Rare antique original German World war 1 War Merit Cross from 1916.

This cross was established by Grand Duke Friedrich II on September 9, 1916, for individuals who had rendered special services to the army or general welfare during the World War through official or voluntary activities. Individuals who had already received another Baden award for wartime services were not permitted to be awarded the medal. If the holder of the War Merit Cross was later awarded another war decoration, they had to return the War Merit Cross. Crosses were made from a variety of materials. Gold-plated bronze crosses are more expensive than those made from gold-plated white metal or gold-plated war metal (zinc). There was no general obligation to return the medal.

This is a plated bronze version.

An eight-pointed cross made of gold bronze in the Maltese pattern. The cross arms have raised fluted edges, the interiors are finely grained. The front and back have a round, silver-plated center shield (15 mm). A laurel wreath is placed between the cross arms. On the upper cross arm, a transversely soldered eyelet.

Front: In the silver central shield with border the Baden griffin with sword and coat of arms.
Back: In the silver central shield with border the decorated letter – F – .

This medal is in good antique condition with some tarnishing from age.