Germany, Imperial. A Bavarian Merit Cross Medal Pair

(Gruppe von zwei kaiserlich-deutsche Medaillen). A pairing of two Imperial German medals, including a Bavarian Merit Cross Third Class with Swords and an Austrian War 1866 Cross and a Bavarian Commemorative Cross for the Austrian War 1866.

(Militärverdienstkreuz 3. Klasse mit Schwertern). A Bavarian Military Merit Cross Third Class with Swords, consisting of a copper Maltese Cross with pebbled arms, the obverse bearing a central medallion overlaid by a raised monogram of King Ludwig II, situated within a stylized belt and buckle, bearing the inscription of “Merenti” (Merit) with arabesques, the twelve o’clock arm riveted with a crossed sword clasp, the reverse bearing a central raised Bavarian lion rampant, situated within a stylized belt and buckle bearing the institution date of “1866” with arabesques, an unmarked example, measuring 41.76 mm (w) x 42.50 mm (l) not including its loop and swords for suspension from its period-original replacement ribbon, weighting 20.2 grams, with slight patina from age.

(Armeedenkzeichen 1866). A Commemorative Cross for the Austrian War (1866), consisting of a bronze Rupert cross with striped arms, the obverse bearing a central medallion with a crowned Bavarian lion within an oak leaf wreath, the reverse bearing a central medallion with the date “1866” within an oak leaf wreath, measuring 36.73 mm (w) x 36.75 mm (l) without its double loop configuration for suspension from its missing ribbon, weighing 14.2 grams. The grouping of two Imperial German awards in overall better than very fine condition.