Austria, Imperial. A War Cross for Civilian Services, First Grade, c.1917

1915-1918 Issue. A War Cross for Civilian Services First Grade (Kriegskreuz für Zivildienste 1. Grades); a cross constructed of silver gilt and white enameled arms and with an oak wreath between the arms of the cross; the obverse with a central white enameled medallion, inscribed “Merito Civili Tempore Beli MCMXV” (Latin - Civilian Service during War) with “FJI” in capital letters for Franciscus Josephus Primus; the reverse plain, with a vertical pinback; marked “A” six times for silver content, and “W” three times for an unkown maker; measuring 63.27 mm (w) x 62.68 mm (h); weighing 65.2 grams; with only light contact marks on the enamels, but completely free of chips and cracks of any kind; in overall extremely fine condition.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.