Imperial German (Bavarian) Medal Group of Three for a Distinguished First World War Combatant

A medal bar for a distinguished combatant of the First World War, featuring three decorations, including:

1. A 1914 Iron Cross II Class, constructed of iron and silver, on loop for suspension with its period original ribbon, consisting of a Cross Pattée with a blackened magnetic iron core within a ribbed silver frame, the obverse with a central initial “W”, the six o’clock arm with a reinstitution date of “1914”, the twelve o’clock arm with a royal crown, the reverse with three central oak leaves, the six o’clock arm with an initial institution date of “1813”, the twelve o’clock arm with initials “FW” topped by a royal crown, no visible maker marks.

2. A Bavarian Military Merit Cross, III Class with Crown and Swords, constructed of coppered bronze, on loop for suspension with its period original ribbon, consisting of a Maltese Cross with pebbled arms, the obverse bearing a central monogram of King Ludwig II, situated within a stylized belt and buckle bearing an inscription of “MERENTI” (“MERIT”) with arabesques, the reverse bearing a central Bavaria lion rampant situated within a stylized belt and buckle bearing an institution date of “1866” with arabesques, the twelve o’clock arm riveted with a sword clasp and culminating in a crown suspension with loop, unmarked.

3. An Honour Cross of the World War 1914/1918 for Combatants, constructed of bronzed magnetic metal, on loop for suspension with its period original ribbon, the obverse bearing central wreathed dates “1914-1918”, the reverse maker marked to Deschler & Sohn, Munchen.

Contemporary pin back mounting. This group came to us directly from a descendant of the unknown recipient.