Hesse, Grand Duchy. A Military Merit Cross 1870/71 Auction Archive with a smaller shield below

with a smaller shield below bearing a cross framed by hash marks

NS (July to August in the Trainee Pool)

for 25 Years' Service

in good condition

dark patina on the two silver medals

Hesse, Grand Duchy. A Military Merit Cross 1870/71 Auction Archive with a smaller shield below(Militr Verdienstkreuz 1870 71). Instituted 12 September 1870 by Grand Duke Ludwig III. (1870 1885 issue). Constructed of gilded bronze, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a Cross Patte, the obverse with a central monogram of Ludwig III, the arms with an inscription of GOTT, EHRE, VATERLAND (GOD, HONOUR, FATHERLAND), the reverse with a central monogram of Ludwig III, the arms with an inscription of DEN 12. SEPTEMBER