Austria, Imperial. An Order Of The Iron Crown, Iii Class, By Rothe

(Orden der Eisernen Krone III. Klasse). Instituted 7 April 1815 by Emperor Franz I. (1914-1918 issue). (ca. 1900 issue). Constructed of Gold with multi-coloured enamels, the obverse consisting of a double-headed Austrian imperial eagle, clutching an orb and sceptre, overlaid by a central blue enameled shield bearing a gilt monogram of Emperor Franz I, within a green enameled laurel wreath, above a pedestal bearing stylized jewels, with a hollow crown suspension emanating from the eagles’ heads and attached via stylized ribbons, the suspension connecting to a period original tri-fold ribbon, the reverse overlaid by a central blue enameled shield bearing a gilt institution date of “1815”, the suspension loop maker marked “F.R.” for Friedrich Rothe of Vienna, with a Gemsenkopf hallmark indicating 18k Gold purity, measuring 29.44 mm (w) x 57.28 mm (h), weighing 24.9 grams (inclusive of ribbon), an exquisite example in extremely fine condition.