Russia, Imperial. A Medal For Zeal, Silver Grade, C.1900 Buy Now War Merit Cross First Class

War Merit Cross First Class with Swords

and American Defense Service Medal

It is missing its chin strap

with characteristic eagle suspension with an uncrowned eagle clutching a snake in talons

Russia, Imperial. A Medal For Zeal, Silver Grade, C.1900 Buy Now War Merit Cross First ClassType V. (Nicholas II, 1894 1917). In silver, 28. 5 mm, period ribbon, tarnishing evident on the obverse, contact marks, near very fine. Footnote: The Medal for Zeal was first instituted in December 1801 during the reign of Tsar Alexander I. After the death of Tsar Alexander III, the medal was re designed and issued around 1894 bearing the profile of the new sovereign, Tsar Nicolas II. It was awarded to civilians that had showed exceptional zeal in the