(Franz Joseph Orden Ritterkreuz). Instituted December 12 1849 by Kaiser Franz Joseph. Military Division. Type II (1914-1918). A silver gilt Byzantine cross with broad ends, with a double-headed crowned black enamelled eagle, with a central white enamelled medallion inscribed “FJ” in gilt, along with a multi-link chain suspended from the eagles’ mouth with letters attached, spelling “VIRIBUS UNITIS” (United Strength), the reverse of the cross with a central white enamelled medallion dated “1849” in gilt, with a crown suspension with red enamelled interior cap, maker marked on the crown’s pendilia for Rothe, with a silver mark denoting Viennese manufacture and a silver purity of 800/1000 from 1872-1922, also marked on the suspension ring, measures 31.58mm (w) x 57.62mm (h – inclusive of crown suspension), weighs 20.5 grams (inclusive of ribbon), worn on a military style ribbon with a miniature commander with gold swords, measuring 31.05mm (w) x 21.05mm (h), enamels intact, evident gilt wear, in very fine condition.
Contained in it’s original hardshell case of issue, with a burgundy exterior marked F.J.O, interior presents a crème coloured velvet medal bed with interior silk lid stamped with makers mark, measures 59.8mm (w) x 111.10mm (h), hinge and clasp functional, small rip in silk covering hinge, small marks to exterior, in very fine condition.