Austria, Imperial. An 1849 Merit Cross, I Class, By Wilhelm Kunz, With Case

An 1849 Merit Cross, Type III (1914-1918), Military Division, I Class Cross. In bronze gilt with red enamels, featuring a cross with central medallion inscription FJ and reverse medallion bearing the date 1849, surmounted by a crown with red interior cap, worn on military ribbon, measures 36.2mm (w) x 58.7mm (h – inclusive of crown), weighs 19.8 grams, marked with partial makers mark of Wilhelm Kunz, Wien, with bronze star, worn on a triangular military ribbon, light gilt wear, enamels intact, remains better than very fine condition. Contained in its original case of issue, black leatherette exterior marked D.K m.d.K., the interior features the Austrian stamp on the interior lid, the base is partially recessed, with flat area for the ribbon, bottom of the case marked BR 1917, measures 60mm (w) x 105mm (l) x 18mm (d), hinge and clasp functional, remains in very fine condition.