Austria, Empire. A Franz Joseph Order in Gold, Knight’s Cross, by Vincent Mayer, c.1898

(Franz Joseph Orden Ritterkreuz). A cross with double headed crowned eagle in solid 18Kt. Gold (hallmarked on the ring), with a central white enameled medallion inscribed “FJ” in Gold, along with chains and “Viribus Unitis” (Latin - United Strength) inscribed in silver gilt; the reverse of the cross with a a central white enameled medallion dated “1849”; with a swivel crown suspension and its period original tri-fold ribbon, maker marked on the ring for “Vincent Mayer”, with an Austrian "Gemsenkopf" hallmark for 18Kt. Gold purity, and Viennese manufacture; measuring 31.2 mm (w) x 56.6 mm (h); in mint condition. In matching case of issue (case is scuffed, about very fine condition), and dated "1898" at the bottom.