Austria, Empire. A Leopold Order in Gold, Knight’s Cross with War Decoration, by Rothe, c.1914

(Leopold Orden Ritterkreuz mit Kriegsdekoration). Type III issued 1914-1918. A cross pattee constructed of Gold with red and white enameled arms; the obverse with a central red enameled medallion, inscribed “F.I.A” for “Franciscus Imperator Austriae”, surrounded by a ring of white enamels, inscribed “Integritati et Merito” (Latin - Integrity and Merit); the reverse with a central white enameled medallion, inscribed “Opes regum corda subditorum” (Latin - The deeds of the Kings win the hearts of their subjects), surrounded by a gilt oak wreath; suspended from a hollow and partially enameled royal crown, with a partial laurel wreath, suspended from its period original ribbon; marked “FR” for “Ferdinand Rothe” and with a “3 Goat Head A” gold hallmark on the integral ring and the loop for suspension; measuring 30.98 mm (w) x 61.58 mm (h); weighing 13.2 grams; 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.