Austria, Empire. Four Patriotic Badges, c.1915

(Abzeichen). 1) A square badge featuring a Cross Urdy, each arm enamelled with colours of flags representing the Habsburg Monarchy, Hungary, Ottoman Empire, and German Empire, silvered rays spring from between each arm of the cross, a central medallion presents the profiles of Franz Joseph and Wilhelm II, the reverse is smooth except for the inscription “GES. GESCHUTZT,” a horizontal pinback, measures 33.47 mm (w) x 33.46 mm (h), and in extremely fine condition. 2) An enamelled badge featuring the flags of the German and Austrian Empires, the Hungarian coat of arms, and the crescent and star of the Ottoman Empire, the reverse shows a horizontal pinback, measures 35.29 mm (w) x 36 mm (h), and in extremely fine condition. 3) An enamelled badge featuring the flags of the German Empire and Hungary, resting on either side of the Austrian imperial crown, missing attachment, reverse presents a horizontal pinback, measures 29.74 mm (w) x 20.26 mm (h), and in very fine condition. 4) A painted badge presenting two joined wreaths, one representing Franz Joseph and the other Wilhelm, reverse presents a horizontal pinback, measures 28.71 mm (w) x 17.24 mm (h), and in 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.