Austria, Imperial. A Merit Cross, IV Class, by V. Mayers Söhne, c.1915

(Verdienstkreuz IV. Klasse mit Etui). Instituted 16 February 1850. (1914-1918 issue). In silver with enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon, consisting of a Ruppert Cross with red enameled arms, the obverse with a central monogram of Franz Joseph I on a pebbled background, circumscribed by a raised inscription of “VIRIBUS UNITIS” (“UNITED FORCES”), the reverse with a central raised date of “1849” on a pebbled background, the suspension loop maker marked “V. MAYERS SÖHNE, WIEN”, measuring 29.78 mm (w) x 33.77 mm (h), weighing 8.5 grams, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of heavy card stock with a faux dark green leather exterior, the obverse lid with silver initials “V. K.”, the interior with a padded white satin lid liner and intact hinge cover, bearing a gold Austro-Hungarian coat of arms, with a slotted and depressed beige doeskin medal bed, opening with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release and a functional magnetic metal hinge, measuring 57 mm (w) x 92 mm (l) x 23 mm (h), in near extremely fine condition.