Austria, Imperial. An Order of the Knights of Malta, Donat Cross, I Class, c.1920

(Johanniter-Malteser-Orden Donatkreuz 1. Klasse). Instituted in 1113. A Maltese cross constructed of gilded silver, the 3, 6 and 9 o’clock arms are constructed of white enamel, and the 12 o’clock arm is of gilded silver, an Austrian double-headed crowned eagle lay in the quadrants between the arms, suspended from a hollow swivel crown, with a red and white enamelled Trophy of Arms suspension also of hollow construction, unmarked, measuring 49.64 mm (w) x 111.52 mm (h - inclusive of Imperial Crown), on a broad loop, decorated with glass stones, for suspension from its period original black neck ribbon, and in extremely fine condition.