Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Cross, by Rothe, c.1849

Type I. 1849-1855 Issue. (Militärverdiesntkreuz). A silver cross pattee with partially enameled red arms; the obverse with a central silver medallion, inscribed “Verdienst”; the reverse plain - marked “Rothe” and with an Austrian silver hallmark; suspended from a triple loop suspension from its correct replacement ribbon; measuring 30.44 mm (w) x 30.47 mm (h); weighing 11.3 grams; the enamels of the twelve o’clock arm previously entirely repaired, with chipping in the enamels of the nine o’clock arm; in overall better than 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.