Pour le Mérite (Blue Max) Replica Medal

The item is a replica or an unofficial version of the "Pour le Mérite," also known as the Blue Max, one of the Kingdom of Prussia's highest military orders. It features a Maltese cross design with four arms, each tapering towards the center. The cross is primarily blue, indicating an enameled surface, with a thin gold border outlining each arm. The gold border also appears to separate the blue enamel from the central gold medallion. In the center of the cross, the words "Pour le Mérite" are inscribed in gold capital letters, with "Pour" on the top arm, "le" on the right arm, "Mé." (likely an abbreviation for Mérite) on the bottom arm, and "rite" on the left arm. The space between the arms of the cross is filled with intricate gold scrollwork or eagles with spread wings, which are characteristic of original Pour le Mérite medals, though the detail quality varies in replicas. A royal crown emblem is visible on the upper arm's gold border, above the word "Pour," and the Prussian eagle is on the lower arm. The obverse is visible in the image, showing the blue enamel and gold detailing. The medal is attached via a gold bail or loop to a small, worn silver-colored metal clasp, which in turn is connected to a piece of white string. The string's presence and the nature of the clasp suggest this could be a display piece, a tie-in to a uniform, or simply how it's currently being held/displayed. The general condition appears good, with the enamel seemingly intact, though minor surface wear or dust might be present. The metal clasp shows signs of use or wear, appearing somewhat tarnished or dulled. The craftsmanship appears to be of reasonable quality for a replica, with clear lines and inscriptions. Given the detailed nature of replicas available, it's difficult to determine a precise age without more information, but it likely dates to the 20th or 21st century.