Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Medal, Silver Medal, By Rothe, C.1917

(Signum Laudis). Instituted March 12, 1890. Franz Joseph (1890-1917). A silver medal, the obverse presenting the right facing bust of Franz Joseph, the reverse inscribed SIGNVM LAVDIS surrounded by a laurel and oak leaf wreath, the medal is surmounted by a crown, measures 31.5mm (w) x 52mm (h – inclusive of cross adorned integral ring on crown), weighs 23.9 grams (including ribbon), worn on original ribbon, edge knocks visible, lovely patina, very fine condition. 

Contained in its original case of issue, featuring a red leatherette exterior with the Austrian Coat of Arms of Emperor Franz Joseph I, the interior features a crème coloured lid marked ROTHE NEFFE WIEN, the base features a black velvet recessed medalbed, measures 60mm (w) x 107mm (l) x 21mm (d), hinge and catch functional, light overall wear, in very fine condition. 

Footnote: The Military Merit Medal was created by Emperor Franz Joseph I instituted in 1890. It was awarded to military officers for “Laudatory recognition for outstanding achievements in wartime” or “satisfaction with excellent services in peacetime.”