German Bavarian Fire Service Merit Cross 1955 Feuerlöschwesen Medal Gilt Pin
Ehrenkreuz für Verdienste im Feuerlöschwesen - Bavarian Fire Service Merit Cross, Free State of Bavaria, Germany. Instituted May 1955 by the Bavarian State Government to recognise outstanding service and merit in firefighting. Awarded in three classes: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. The gilt cross features white enamel arms with raised red flame motifs radiating outward from the centre on each arm. The central medallion bears the crowned Bavarian state coat of arms - the Rautenschild, a shield of alternating blue and white lozenges (diamonds) representing the Bavarian state colours. The reverse is inscribed "FÜR VERDIENSTE IM FEUERLÖSCHWESEN" (For Merits in Firefighting) across the arms. Suspended from a woven ribbon in the Bavarian colours of alternating vertical blue and white stripes, fitted with a silver-toned pin clasp for uniform wear. Circa: 1955 onwards (post-war Bavarian decoration). The cross has been produced continuously since the 1955 institution without significant design change. The gilt finish and construction style are consistent with mid-to-late 20th century production. No maker marks are visible. Condition: Used. The gilt finish shows age-related tarnishing with darker oxidation in the recessed areas and around the raised lettering, particularly on the reverse. The white enamel on the obverse arms appears intact with minor surface wear. The red flame detailing retains clear definition. The central Bavarian shield medallion is crisp with the crown and lozenge pattern clearly visible. The ribbon retains strong blue and white colour with light age toning. The pin hardware is intact and functional. No bends, cracks, or repairs visible. Please review all five photos for condition detail. Details: Gilt cross pattée with white enamel arms Red flame motifs on each arm Central crowned Bavarian Rautenschild (blue/white lozenges) Reverse: "FÜR VERDIENSTE IM FEUERLÖSCHWESEN" Ribbon: Bavarian blue and white vertical stripes Silver-toned pin clasp on ribbon reverse No visible maker marks Approximately 45mm tall including suspension A genuine piece of post-war German state firefighting heritage from Bavaria. These crosses were awarded to both professional and volunteer firefighters for distinguished service. An uncommon find on the UK market. Packed carefully and dispatched same day from the UK. Explore more vintage German militaria, fire service medals and collectibles in our store, The Voyage Bird.