Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Cross, III Class with War Clasp

(Militärverdienstkreuz III. Klasse mit Spange). Instituted on 22 October 1849. (1914-1918 Issue). Constructed of gilded silver with multi-coloured enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon with sword clasp, consisting of a Cross Pattée with red and white enameled arms, the obverse with a central white enameled medallion bearing a gilt inscription of “VERDIENST” (“MERIT”), surrounded by as ring of red enamels, the reverse plain with white enamels, the quadrants of the cross joined by gilt laurel leaves, measuring 30.50 mm (w) x 33.31 mm (h), weighing 16.5 grams, minor flecking of enamels, otherwise in near extremely fine condition.