Austria, Imperial. A Pair of Decorations

Austria, Imperial. A Merit Cross 1849, III Class Cross with Crown, by W. Kunz;  (Verdienstkreuz “1849” 3. Klasse). Issued 1914-1918. A cross constructed of silver with red enamelled arms, the obverse with a central silver medallion inscribed “FJ” for “Franz Joseph”, surrounded by a broad silver ring, inscribed “VIRIBUS UNITIS” (Latin - Stand United), the reverse with a similar central silver medallion dated “1849”, on a swivel crown and loop for suspension, the loop marked “Wilhelm Kunz, Wien” along with silver hallmark, suspended from its period original military ribbon, measuring 36.3 mm (w) x 58.00 mm (h), toned, very fine.

Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Cross, Third Class; Militärverdienstkreuz III. Klasse). (1865-1914 issue). Constructed of silver with multi-coloured enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon, consisting of a Maltese Cross, the obverse with red and white enameled arms, the obverse with a central white enameled medallion bearing a gilt inscription of “VERDIENST” (“MERIT”) within a ring of red enamel, the reverse with white enameled arms and centre, the suspension ring hallmarked, measuring 30.6 mm (w) x 34.5 mm (h), with enamel loss to reverse, very fine.