(Ehrenzeichen für Verdienste um die Republik Österreich). Instituted in 1952. The badge in silvered bronze with red and white enamels, the coat-of-arms suspension in silvered bronze with red, white, blue, green and black enamels, unmarked, measuring 50 mm (w) x 69 mm (h) inclusive of its coat-of-arms suspension, the badge with crazing evident in the white and red enamels on the arm at 6 o'clock on the obverse, along with scattered silvering on the reverse, the suspension free of flaws, accompanied by its original full-length neck ribbon, better than very fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, salmon-coloured exterior on five sides, the coat-of-arms in gold-coloured ink on the lid, black pebbled bottom bearing a sticker inscribed "ETUI-ČECH WIEN, VI.", inside lid in white satin, padded and maker marked "ANTON REITTERER ORDENSJUWELIER WIEN IX. SCHUBERTG. 24", recessed medal bed in black felt, measuring 85 mm (w) x 150 mm (h) x 29 mm (d), light scuffing on the bottom, case near extremely fine.
Footnote: The Honour Badge for Merit of the Republic of Austria was instituted on April 2, 1952 by the National Council. It is awarded for outstanding achievement and exceptional services to the Republic, in 12 Grades and 3 Medals.