History

This medal was founded by Emperor Franz Joseph, and it was awarded to all individuals who had participated in the Far Eastern Cruise that travelled to East India, China, Japan, Australia, and the South Sea Islands.

The K.U.K Navy was on of the most powerful military branches in the world at the beginning of the First World War. The ships were stationed in various parts of the world and served as potential military back-up for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. They also carried out research and missionary voyages, educational trips and served a purpose for foreign trade and policy making. The medal is composed of gunmetal and is gold-plated. It was awarded a total of 457 times.

In 1892/93, the torpedo ram cruiser SMS Kaiserin Elisabeth carried out a voyage to India, Java, Australia, the South Seas, China, Japan and Korea. Archduke Franz Ferdinand sailed with her, and this was likely the reason a commemorative medal was made.

The obverse inscription translates to "Voyage of HMS Empress Elizabeth".