Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Cross, III Class by Scheid, in Case, c.1915

(Militärverdienstkreuz). Instituted on October 24th, 1849. Type II (1914-1918 Issue). A Military Merit Cross III Class, of multi-piece construction, in silver with red and white enamels,  consisting of a Cross Pattée with red and white enamelled arms, with gilded laurel leaves in the quadrants between the arms of the cross, the obverse with a central white enamelled medallion inscribed with “VERDIENST” (Merit), the reverse with white enamelled arms and center, marked on the integral suspension ring with GAS denoting Scheid manufacture, on a fixed ring and swivel loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon bearing crossed sword device, measures 31.1 mm (w) x 34.7 mm (h - inclusive of integral ring), weighs 17.0 grams (inclusive of ribbon), notable enamel chips to the reverse medallion and 9 o’clock arm, several small enamel chips to the obverse medallion and arms, in very fine condition.

Contained in a textured burgundy exterior marked MILITAER VERDIENSTKREUZ K.D., interior with silk lid marked V. MAYER & SOHNE, WEIN, with black velvet medal bed, measures 67 mm (w) x 115 mm (h) x 23 mm (d), functional hinge and clasp, minor areas of discoloration, base is warped so lid does not meet base along the edges, scuffing to exterior edges, near very fine.