Austria, Empire. A Miniature Order of Franz Joseph, Officer with War Decoration & Swords

(Kaiserlich-österreichischer Franz-Joseph-Orden). Instituted in 1849. Badge in silver gilt with red, white and green enamels, backed by gilt crossed swords, measuring 11.5 mm (w) x 22.7 mm (h), intact enamels, mounted to a triangular war ribbon with hook and eye, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Franz Joseph was instituted in 1849 and awarded for military and civil merit, especially in industry, commerce and diplomacy, in five grades: Grand Cross, Commander with Star, Commander, Officer and Knight. The ribbon was plain red except for awards for war services, when the war decoration ribbon was used.