Austria, Empire. Two Crosses of Merit on their Wartime Ribbons

1914-1916 Issue. (Verdienstkreuz am Kriegsband). A grouping of two Crosses of Merit, consisting of 1) A Golden Cross of Merit; constructed of silver gilt and white and red enamels; on a loop for suspension - marked “G.A.S” for “G. A. Schied, Vienna” and marked with the silver hallmark denoting 90% silver purity and manufacture between 1872 and 1922; accompanied by its period original wartime ribbon; measuring 36.44 mm (w) x 40.73 mm (h); weighing 13.6 grams. 2) An Iron Cross of Merit; constructed of feinzink; on a replacement loop; an unmarked example; measuring 35.52 mm (w) x 40.10 mm (h); with a correct replacement ribbon featuring crossed swords; 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.