United Kingdom. A George V Military Cross With Case

Military Cross, composed of silver, presenting a cross with a crown at the end of each arm and the cypher for GRI in the center, the reverse is plain, measures 43.78mm (w) x 48.28mm (h – inclusive of integral ring), 27.6 grams, worn on original ribbon with suspension and brooch pinback on reverse, dark patina on reverse, extremely fine condition. Contained in an original case of issue, composed of wood and purple leatherette, exterior presents an impressed crown on the top, interior is composed a crème coloured silk lid with a velvet medalbed, measures 75.19mm (w) x 128.52mm (h), 20.08mm (d), hinge and clasp functional, light staining on interior medal bed and hinge covering, extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Military Cross was established by Royal Warrant on December 28, 1914. It was created to fill the need for a gallantry decoration that could be awarded to Junior Officers of the Army, much like the Distinguished Service Cross had been created for Junior Officers of the Royal Navy in 1901. It was originally awarded to soldiers of the Commonwealth, although many of these nations have since established their own awards for gallantry.