Physical Description

A Maltese cross constructed of bronze gilt and enamel. The obverse bears a central circular medallion with a crowned Gothic letter "L", on an white enamel background. The reverse bears a central circular medallion with the Roman numeral "XXV" (25), on a white enamel background. On a loop for suspension, on a green ribbon.

History

The Long Service Decoration was founded by Duke Leopold IV on February 1, 1848. The decoration was conferred upon Officers and military doctors of the Officer rank who had completed 25, 20, or 12 years of active military service.

The award was divided into three categories: a cross for 25 years, a I Class Bar for 20 years, and a II Class Bar for 12 years.

On May 8, 1864, Duke Leopold IV revised the award. Years of active service counted towards the award, but years spent in captivity did not. Recipients were permitted to wear the award upon retirement. Upon a recipient's death, the award had to be returned.

The service cross was valid in Anhalt-Dessau from 1848 to 1867. The Long Service Decoration was replaced by the Prussian Service Award Cross.