An Austrian Kärntner Cross for Merit; Second Class
In zinc, in very fine condition, with original ribbon. Footnote: this cross was awarded to the Carinthian Freikorps, a paramilitary organization established by former soldiers following the end of WWI, to maintain order in the Country and specifically to resist the advance into southern Carinthia by Royal Yugoslav forces attempting its annexation. After the short armed confrontation and intervention of the Western Powers, situation was stabilized, and following referendum held on 10 October 1920, the inhabitants voted decidedly to remain in Austria.

