Austria, Empire. An Order Of Franz Joseph, V Class Knight, C.1916

(Kaiserlich-Österreischischer Franz-Joseph-Orden). Instituted in 1849. Multi-piece construction, in silver with red, white and black enamels, Austrian hallmarked with a Diana's head (Dianakopf) (which was used between 1872 and 1922), the head flanked by the number "2" (.900 silver fineness) on the left and the assay city mark "A" (Vienna), along with the maker mark "VM" (Vincent Mayer of Vienna) on the ring, measuring 31.5 mm (w) x 56.5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, intact enamels, very light contact, original triangular war decoration ribbon with hook and eye, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Franz Joseph was instituted on December 2, 1849 and awarded for military and civil merit, especially in industry, commerce and diplomacy, in five grades: Grand Cross, Commander with Star, Commander, Officer and Knight.