Austria, Empire. An Order of Franz Joseph, Officer’s Cross, by Rozet & Fischmeister, c.1910

(Kaiserlich-Österreichischer Franz-Joseph-Orden, Offizierskreuz). Instituted in 1901 by Kaiser Franz Joseph. (Issued 1901-1918). A bronze gilt cross with double headed crowned eagle in gilt bronze, with a central white enameled medallion inscribed “FJ” in Gold, along with chains and “Viribus Unitis” (Latin - United Strength) inscribed in gilt, topped with a partially enameled gilt crown fastened to the twelve o’clock arm; the reverse plain, with a slender vertical banjo style pinback, a barrel hinge, and a broad catch, marked “Rozet & Fischmeister, Wien” with two stars stamped on the reverse to signify bronze gilt manufacture, measuring 39.69 mm (w) x 72.12 mm (h), weighing 27.4 grams, in overall extremely fine condition.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.