Merit Cross "1849", Type III, Military Division, Iron Cross (with crown)

SKU: 02.AUT.0109.205.01

Estimated market value:

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  • Type III, Iron Cross (with crown, in zinc) Obverse
  • Type III, Iron Cross (with crown, in zinc) Obverse
  • Type III, Iron Cross (with crown, in zinc) Reverse

Attributes

  • country
    Austria (Imperial)
  • date of institution
    December 2, 1849
  • remarks
    The addition of swords and clasps to a cross' ribbon may increase the overall cost.

History


This cross was founded by Emperor Franz Joseph to replace the Civil Medals of Honour.

It was awarded to recognize Austrian citizens for faithfully supporting the monarchy and Austria, for long service in the civil realm, or to recognize exceptional civil service that improved public welfare.

The obverse inscription translates to "Strength through Unity".

The Type III crosses can be worn on red ribbon for civilians or a wartime ribbon for military recipients. The wartime ribbon has one thick stripe of white and red along each exterior edge, and thin, alternating horizontal white and red stripes in the centre section.

From 1917-1918 the Type III the crosses could also be awarded with crossed swords on the wartime ribbon.

The Iron Cross grade was added to the decoration on April 1, 1916 to rewarded lower ranking civil and military personnel for rendering outstanding wartime service, with a focus on work within support and auxiliary roles.

If the medal was awarded a second time, one clasp is worn on the ribbon.

If the medal was awarded a third time, two clasps are worn on the ribbon.

Due to the shortage of metals late in World War I, the early Iron Crosses were composed of Iron while the crosses issued later in the war were composed of zinc and other war materials.

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Versions

  • Price

    $65 USD

  • Composition

    Zinc

  • Inscription

    Obv: VIRIBUS UNITIS FJ Rev: 1916

  • Size

    34.5mm

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

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