Austria, Empire. An Exceptional Military Order of Maria Theresia, Museum Exhibition Example, by C.F. Rothe, c. 1955

(Militär Maria Theresien Orden). Instituted June 18th, 1757. (c. 1955 issue modeled after the Grand Cross, Type II., Issued between 1860 and 1918). An exceptional quality Museum Exhibition Example of a cased Military Order of Maria Theresia, consisting of:

1. The Sash Badge. Constructed of gilded silver, consisting of a white enameled Geneva Cross with slightly waved arm finials, the obverse with a round central medallion presenting the Austrian national colours (red-white-red) in enamels, surrounded by a white enameled ring inscribed “Fortitudini” (Fortitude) in gilt, which is then surrounded by a ring of multi-faceted gilded pebbling, the reverse with a similar central medallion presenting a white enameled field inscribed “MTF” (Maria Theresa Franciscus) in gilt script, surrounded by a green enameled ring and a matching ring of multi-faceted gilded pebbling, unmarked, measuring 51.5 mm (w) x 51.5 mm (l), weighing 58.13 grams. 

2. The Breast Star. Constructed of gilded silver, consisting of a Geneva Cross with slightly waved arm finials, the obverse of the arms consisting of beautifully embellished multi-faceted surfaces, with a finely green enameled laurel wreath bearing red berries in the quadrants between the arms, with a round central medallion presenting the Austrian national colours (red-white-red) in enamels, surrounded by a white enameled ring inscribed “Fortitudini” (Fortitude) in gilt, which is then surrounded by a ring of multi-faceted gilded pebbling, the reverse is plain with a functional vertical pinback, marked “C.F. Rothe, Wien” on the pin, measuring 59.0 mm (w) x 59.0 mm (l), weighing 59.66 grams. 

Accompanied by its presentation case, constructed of a lightweight wooden core, with a dark red lightly textured faux leather (leatherette) exterior, the exterior of the lid embossed with a double-headed Austrian Eagle in gilt, the exterior of the case with dual metal hinges, with an intact interior fabric hinge cover, a padded silk liner on the interior of the lid, as well as functional dual hinges to secure the case shut.

A fine quality and exceptionally preserved cased Military Order of Maria Theresia, Museum Exhibition Example, by C.F. Rothe, in better than extremely fine condition.