Mecklenburg-Schwerin, Grand Duchy. A Military Merit Cross, I Class United Republic of 50 mm (h - inclusive

50 mm (h - inclusive of integral arc)

measuring 243 mm x 164 mm

the fourth top button having been lost to time

He began service as a Boy Seaman (124245) with the Royal Navy in September 1883

It was awarded in six grades: Grand Cordon

Mecklenburg-Schwerin, Grand Duchy. A Military Merit Cross, I Class United Republic of 50 mm (h - inclusive(Militr Verdienstkreuz I. Klasse). Instituted 28 February 1915 by Grand Duke Friedrich Franz IV. (1915 1924 issue). Constructed of gilded bronze, consisting of a Cross Patte, the obverse with pebbled arms and ribbed borders, bearing a central raised monogram of Grand Duke Friedrich Franz IV, the six oclock arm bearing a date of 1914, the twelve oclock arm bearing a royal crown, the reverse with a barrel hinge and tapering banjo style pinback meeting a