History

The Civil Honour Decoration was instituted by Heinrich LXVII (Junior Line) and was conferred upon court officials and servants who rendered long and faithful service to the royal house.

In 1893, the name of the Honour Cross was changed to Merit Cross.

The Junior Line awards were worn on a purple ribbon.

The I Class Gold Cross was conferred upon high-ranking individuals, such as members of government administrations or councillors, who had rendered 25 years of service. In exceptional cases, it could also be awarded to individuals who performed at least 25 years of meritorious work within churches, schools, or the public service.