An Austrian Order Of Franz Joseph In Gold; Commander’s Neck Cross By V. Mayer; Circa 1900

This is a very fine quality Order of Franz Joseph in gold; commander’s neck cross; circa 1900 period manufacture; skillfully crafted in 18k gold and black and red enamels; the obverse with a beautifully detailed double headed Austrian eagle with a centered four-armed cross in red enamels with gold outlines; in the center of the cross a white porcelain disc with “FJ” (Franz Josef) in 18k gold; ring hallmarked “VM” (V. Mayer, Wien) along with “Gensenkopf 3A” mark for 18k gold; measuring 70 mm x 38 mm; with full length neck ribbon; very fine quality manufacture and overall near mint condition.

Footnote: The Franz Joseph Order was founded by Kaiser Franz Josef on December 2, 1849, to celebrate and commemorate the first anniversary of his accession to the throne of Imperial Austria. It was awarded to foreign citizens and Austrians for special merit within either diplomatic, civil, or military service.