Merit Cross "1849", Type III, Military Division, IV Class Cross by F. Braun
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 02.AUT.0109.204.01.000
Estimated market value:
Estimated market value:
Austria, Imperial. A Cross of Merit, IV Class, with Case, by F. Braun
(Verdienstkreuz IV. Klasse mit Etui). Issued 1914-1918. Third Period.Constructed of silver, consisting of a Ruppert Cross with red enameled arms, the obverse with a central silver medallion inscribed “FJ” (Franz Josef), circumscribed by an inscription of “VIRIBUS UNITIS” (“WITH UNITED FORCES”), the reverse with an analogous medallion bearing a date of “1849”, on a loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon, the loop with a makers mark of “F. Braun, Wien”, measuring 30.71 mm (w) x 34.73 mm (h), weighing 8.5 grams, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of card stock with a faux black leather exterior, the obverse lid with a gold embossed inscription of “V.K.”, the interior with a white satin-type lid liner bearing an Imperial Austrian coat of arms, with a depressed white doeskin medal bed, opening with a functional bronze spring catch with exterior stud release and a functional magnetic metal hinge, the exterior with a maker’s mark of “Etuis & Cassetten Fabrik, J.G. Bergmann, Wien VII”, measuring 58 mm (w) x 98 mm (l) x 20 mm (h), in near extremely fine condition.
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 (peacetime) ribbon or a wartime ribbon. 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.
Comments
Sign in to comment and reply.
COMMUNITY
ACCOUNT
Scroll Top
