Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Cross, I Class with Crown by W. Kunz

(Goldenes Verdienstkreuz mit Krone). Instituted 16 February 1850. (1850-1918 issue). Military Division. Constructed of gilded bronze with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a cross with red enamelled arms, the obverse with a central white enamelled medallion bearing a central gilt monogram of Franz Joseph I, circumscribed by an inscription of “VIRIBUS UNITIS” (“UNITED FORCES”), the reverse with a central white enamelled medallion bearing a gilt date of “1849”, on a gilded and enamelled crown suspension with loop connecting to a period original tri-fold ribbon with stripes denoting military division, the loop maker marked “WILH. KUNZ, WIEN”, measuring 36.4 mm (w) x 59.5 mm (h – inclusive of cross adorned crown suspension), light wear to enamels and areas of replacement on the reverse 12 and 3 o’clock arms, ribbon showing discolouration, the decoration remains in very fine condition.

Contained in a case of the order by Vincent Mayer’s Sohne, in dark green exterior, with green velvet base and silk lid, measures 59.5 mm (w) x 112.6 mm (h), functional clasp, wear to exterior, very fine