Austria, Empire. An Order of Franz Joseph, Commander’s Star with War Decoration, by V.Mayer’s, c.1917

(Kaiserlich-Österreichischer Franz-Joseph-Orden, Komtur Brustkreuz mit Kriegsdekoration). Instituted in 1901 by Kaiser Franz Joseph. (Issued 1901-1918). An eight-pointed silver faceted star, the obverse with a bronze gilt cross with red enameled arms, and with double headed crowned eagle in gilt bronze, with a central white enameled medallion inscribed “FJ” in gilt, along with chains and “Viribus Unitis” (Latin - United Strength) inscribed in gilt, topped with a partially enameled gilt crown fastened to the twelve o’clock arm; the reverse featuring silver gilt laurel wreath fastened to the cross via seven rivets, with two rivets visible where the badge is attached to the star, marked “Vincent Mayer’s Söhne, Wien” and “C” for “Commander”, measuring 80.05 mm (w) x 79.71 mm (h), weighing 69.2 grams, in overall better than 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.