Pour le Mérite Medal

The item is a replica or an original 'Pour le Mérite' medal, often referred to as the 'Blue Max,' a prestigious Prussian military order. It features a Maltese cross design with four arms, colored in a deep, glossy blue enamel on a gold-toned metal base. The edges of the blue enamel are sharply defined by the golden borders of the cross. Between the arms of the cross, intricate golden eagle motifs are visible, forming a decorative background. The cross bears the inscription 'Pour le Mérite' in gold lettering across its central horizontal and vertical axes, with 'Pour' on the upper right arm, 'le Me.' (likely an abbreviation for Mérite) on the lower right, 'rite' on the lower left, and 'F' (presumably for Frederick the Great, the founder) on the upper left arm, accompanied by a stylized crown above the 'F'. The craftsmanship appears detailed, suggesting a high-quality reproduction or an authentic piece. The medal exhibits signs of wear commensurate with its age and use, particularly in the slight dulling of the gold tone in some areas and minor surface imperfections on the blue enamel, though no significant chips or cracks are immediately apparent. A small ring is attached to one arm, from which a silver-colored, possibly metal, clasp or bale hangs. This clasp currently grips a piece of white string or cord, indicating it might have been used as a display piece or pendant. The overall condition suggests that while it has been handled, it has been reasonably well-preserved. There are no visible manufacturer's marks or signatures discernible from the image alone, which could be typical for such awards or might indicate a reproduction.

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