War Cross for Civil Merit, I Class Cross, by Wiener Werkstatte

CATEGORY: Version

SKU: 02.AUT.0121.101.01.001

Estimated market value:

$1100 USD

  • War Cross for Civil Merit, I Class Cross, by Wiener Werkstatte

Estimated market value:

$1100 USD

Attributes

  • Country
    Austria (Imperial)
  • Makers
    Wiener Werkstatte
  • Composition
    Silver gilt/Enamelled
  • Inscription
    Obv: MERITO CIVILI TEMPORE BELLI MCMXV FJ I
  • Size
    62-65mm

Physical Description and Item Details


War Cross for Civil Merit,
1st class, AR - gilded and enamelled, hallmarked (Viennese Diana head punch 1872-1922) and manufacturer's mark WW = Wiener Werkstätte, on needle, nice piece in fine production quality and excellent condition, I / II

History


The War Cross for Civil Merit was instituted on February 8, 1916 by Emperor Franz Joseph I. It was awarded to recognize the outstanding zeal and sacrifice of civilians within war effort services during World War I. The decoration was designed by artist Josef Hoffmann.

It was also conferred upon members of the military that were not directly involved in the battles. Most often for achievements in administration, charitable work, finance or the wartime economy.

The decoration is awarded in four classes, to account for the importance of achievement and social standing of the awardee. It was worn on the left breast, as it was too difficult to come up with a ribbon that pleased both the Austrian and Hungarian empire.

The obverse inscription translates to "Civil Merit in Time of War 1915".

The I Class Cross was conferred upon high ranking military personnel and important civilian recipients. It is much large than the other classes, measuring 64mm in diameter, and features gold-plating. This decoration was manufactured by the Wiener Werkstatte of the firm of Bachruch in Budapest.

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