Austria, Imperial. An 1849 Merit Cross, I Class, by Wilhelm Kunz

(Verdienstkreuz). Instituted on 2 December 1849. Type III. (1914-1918 Issue). A cross constructed of gilded bronze, with red-enamelled arms, the obverse centre presents a gilded medallion inscribed FJ for FRANZ JOSEPH, over a field of white-enamel, surrounded by a gilt ring, and an ornately decorated white-enamelled ring bearing the inscription VIRIBUS UNITIS (STAND UNITED), the reverse centre presents a similar medallion, presenting the date 1849, maker marked on loop with WILH. KUNZ, WIEN X, also featuring a star hallmark, measuring 35.99 mm (w) x 59.25 mm (h - inclusive of imperial crown), on loop for suspension from period original, triangular war ribbon, and in very fine condition.