Austria, Imperial. A First War Iron Cross and 1849 Merit Cross

A 1914 Iron Cross, (Eisernes Kreuz 1914 II. Klasse). Reinstituted 5 August 1914 by Kaiser Wilhelm II. (1914-1918 issue). Constructed of iron and silver, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a Cross Pattée with a blackened magnetic iron core within a ribbed silver frame, the obverse with a central initial “W”, the six o’clock arm with a reinstitution date of “1914”, the twelve o’clock arm with a royal crown, the reverse with three central oak leaves, the six o’clock arm with an initial institution date of “1813”, the twelve o’clock arm with initials “FW” topped by a royal crown, the suspension loop marked, measures 42.9mm (w) x 47.6mm (h – inclusive of integral ring), weighs 21.2 grams (including ribbon), worn on a replacement Austrian style triangular ribbon, wear to silver, in very fine condition.

An 1849 Merit Cross, Type III (1914-1918), Military Division, IV Class Cross. In silver with red enamel arms, the obverse medallion features the initials FJ surrounded by the inscription VIRIBUS UNITIS, the reverse features the date 1849, measures 29.8mm (w) x 34.2mm (h – inclusive of integral ball), weighs 11.8 grams (including ribbon), worn on a military ribbon with cross swords device, enamel loss on reverse, remains in very fine condition.