Austria, Imperial. A Military Order of Maria Theresa, Commander by Rothe, c.1930

(Militär-Maria-Theresien-Orden, Kommandeurkreuz). Constructed of silver gilt with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Maria Theresa Cross with white enameled arms, the obverse bearing a central red and white enameled medallion, within a white enameled ring bearing a gilt inscription of “FORTITUDINI” (“FOR COURAGE”), the reverse bearing a central white enameled medallion overlaid by a gilt monogram of Empress Maria Theresa, within a green enameled wreath, the twelve o’clock arm topped by an integral loop connecting to a suspension ring with a period original full-length confectioned neck ribbon, marked in the suspension with 925 denoting silver composition, and a typical circa 1930's makers mark of Rothe (the official maker of this insignia), measuring 44.2 mm (w) x 48.1 mm (h), weighing 28.5 grams, worn on a full length neck ribbon, with minor flecking of enamels evident, slight gilt wear, a typical cross produced c. 1930, of very fine quality manufacture, and in extremely fine condition. Rare.