Imperial Germany
Prussia - Merit Cross for Women and Virgins
Description
This Merit Cross for Women and Virgins comes on its original non-combatant ribbon and the original case of issue. The Silver cross is enameled and is in uncleaned condition. No enamel chips!
The case is made from brown leather and has the correct and contemporary hock lock. The reverse hinge was fixed at some time with matching leather. Fine interior and wearing instructions.
Despite the single cross surfacing from time to time, the set in its original and elaborate case is not and easy find.
Condition
1-
Historical information
Award period
1871 - 1871
OEK
Institution date
22.03.1871
Instituted by
König Wilhelm I. von Preußen
The Merit Cross for Women and Virgins was created on March 22, 1871, by King Wilhelm I of Prussia and could be awarded to all women who had rendered outstanding services and self-sacrificing work for the benefit of the troops and their relatives during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71.
All awards were made by recommendation of Queen Augusta, who were subsequently confirmed by the King. The first crosses were awarded place on April 9 and 26, 1871. 35 female members of ruling houses were honored as prominent patrons of voluntary nursing. The last two crosses were awarded in 1875, although Wilhelm I had than already decided to seize the awards on January 3, 1873.
A total of 2979 awards are documented. Among them are 78 women of non-German origin.
The cross was worn on a bow made from white ribbon with black stripes on the left chest.
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