Austria, Empire. An Army Cross (Canon Cross) 1813-1814

(Kanonen Kreuz). Instituted in 1814. In bronze with a green varnish finish, measuring 27.5 mm (w) x 30.5 mm (h) inclusive of its integral ring, with loop, traces of the green varnish finish remains, residue evident in the areas around the text on the reverse, light contact, on incorrect replacement ribbon, very fine.

Footnote: The Army Cross was authorized by Emperor Francis in 1814, for award to his soldiers in memory of their participation in the Befreiungskrieg of 1813-1814, to free Germany and Europe from the domination of Napoleon. It was not actually awarded until 1815. Usually called the "Canon Cross" because it was made from captured bronze canon, and sometimes wrongly called the "Leipzig Cross" after that decisive battle in 1813. It is significant in that it is the first award given equally to all serving soldiers irrespective of rank. There originally were plans for three sizes of cross, and some specimens do exist, but in the end only one type, the small bronze with green varnish background, was made and distributed. Perhaps some 200,000 crosses were issued but only a few thousand at most remain today. Also, one large gilded cross with a laurel leaf decorated wearing ring was made for FM. Prince Schwarzenberg as commander in chief, and it was intended to be worn from a ribbon around the neck. This unique piece is in the Army Museum in Vienna.