Austria. Empire. An Imperial Order of Leopold, Grand Cross, by Rothe, c.1960

Institution Date: January 8, 1808. Grand Cross with war decoration, in gilded bronze with red, white and green enamel, center medallion affixed with the monogram of Emperor Franz I encircled with Latin “Integritati Et Merito” (translation: Integrity and Merit), with reverse center medallion inscribed “Opes Regum Code Subdito Rum” (translation: The hearts of his subjects are a King’s riches), with two silver swords piercing the centerpiece the twelve o’clock arm with an integral loop connecting to a hollow gilt crown suspension, flanked by green enameled laurel branches, measuring at 41.1mm (w) x 81.5mm (h- inclusive of suspension) and weighing 18.4 grams. Accompanied by the Breast Star of the order in silver and silver gilt with enamels, center medallion affixed with the monogram of Emperor Franz I encircled with Latin “Integritati Et Merito” (translation: Integrity and Merit), with two swords piercing the centerpiece, marked “C.F. Rothe, Wein”, measuring 77.6mm (w) x 77.2mm (h) and weighing 86.0 grams, with a vertical pinback, both in presentation case and in extremely fine condition.