Physical Description

A Luitpold cross constructed of bronze and enamels. The obverse centre bears a circular medallion with a red enamel cross on a white enamel background encompassed by a blue enamel border. The 12 o’clock arm bears a crown. The arms of the cross are pebbled. The reverse centre bears an image of the Bavarian coat of arms. The cross is topped with an ornamental arabesque. On a loop for suspension with a blue and white striped ribbon.

History

The Merit Cross for Medical Volunteers was established on March 5, 1901 by Prince Regent Luitpold. The cross was awarded in recognition of many years of voluntary nursing and for the support of the military medical service. The German name of the medal is "Verdienstkreuz für freiwillige Krankenpflege".

Crosses awarded for service in times of war featured clasps on the ribbon, which denoted the year of the conflict. Clasps on the ribbon may read: "1870/71", "1914", "1914" with crown. Crosses awarded in times of peace were conferred without clasps.

Awards were conferred upon members of the Bavarian Aid Organization and the Bavarian Red Cross’ Women’s Association for 20 years of service.