Merit Cross 3rd Class

[Tim B]

Am I correct that the asterisk on the ring denotes "made of precious metals"?

Tim

[GdC26]

To my knowledge, the star denotes use of non-precious metals (i.e., or generally, bronze) and is (generally seen as) indicative of wartime manufacture. 

Regards, 

Sandro

[paul wood]

Sandro is correct, these were wartime issues, the good thing is when you see the star it is most likely to be a genuine piece.

Paul

[Tim B]

Thanks guys!

I must have misread something in the past.  I am happy that it is war time issued though!

Tim