Prussia, Kingdom. A Rare Cross of Merit for Women and Girls 1870-71

(Verdienstkreuz für Frauen und Jungfrauen 1870-71). Instituted 22 March 1871 by King and Kaiser Wilhelm I. (1871 issue). Constructed of silver with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée with a black enameled core situated within a ribbed frame, the obverse bearing a central red and white enameled Geneva Cross, the reverse bearing central silvered integrated monograms of King/Kaiser Wilhelm I and Queen/Kaiserin Augusta of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach, the six o’clock arm bearing silvered dates “1870-1871”, the twelve o’clock arm bearing a silvered crown, topped by an eyelet with a suspension ring retaining a period original bow tie-style ribbon, unmarked, measuring 32.41 mm (w) x 36.51 mm (h), weighing 14.5 grams, demonstrating minor flecking throughout the enamels, a rare example in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: Established to recognize the meritorious contributions of women to the Franco-Prussian War effort, the Cross of Merit for Women and Girls was awarded just over 2,900 times, with 43 of those bestowed to members of German royal houses.