Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Cross, III Class, by C.F. Rothe, c.1900
(Militärverdienstkreuz III. Klasse). (1865-1914 issue). Constructed of silver with multi-coloured enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon, consisting of a Maltese Cross, the obverse with red and white enameled arms, the obverse with a central white enameled medallion bearing a gilt inscription of “VERDIENST” (“MERIT”) within a ring of red enamel, the reverse with white enameled arms and centre, the suspension ring maker marked “C.F.R.” for C.F. Rothe, Wien, measuring 30.68 mm (w) x 34.06 mm (h), weighing 15.4 grams (inclusive of ribbon), in near extremely fine condition.

