Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Cross, III Class with War Decoration in Case, by V. Mayers’ Söhne

(Militärverdienstkreuz III. Klasse mit Kriegsdekoration und Etui). Constructed of gilded silver with multi-coloured enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon with clasp, consisting of a Cross Pattée, the obverse with red and white enameled arms, with a central white enameled medallion bearing a raised gilt of inscription of “VERDIENST” (“MERIT”), the reverse plain with white enameled arms, with gilt laurel branches through the quadrants, unmarked, measuring 30.52 mm (w) x 33.49 mm (h), weighing 17.8 grams (inclusive of ribbon). Accompanied by its period original presentation case constructed of heavy cardstock with a faux purple leather exterior, the obverse lid with a gilt inscription of “MILITAERVERDIENSTKREUZ” (“MILITARY MERIT CROSS”) and initials “K.D.”, the interior with a white satin-type lid liner and intact hinge cover, with a maker’s mark of “V. MAYERS SÖHNE, K.K. HOF.-O. KAMMER-JUWELIER ORDENFABRIKANTEN, WIEN”, with a slotted black doeskin medal bed, opening with a functional bronze spring catch with exterior stud release and a functional magnetic metal hinge, measuring 67 mm (w) x 112 mm (l) x 20 mm (h), flecking of enamels evident to the cross, with minor material fatigue evident to the case, otherwise in better than very fine condition.