Austria, Second Republic. A Decoration of Honour, Silver Cross of Honour with Case and Miniature, by Wolfgang Reitterer

(Ehrenzeichen für Verdienste um die Republik Österreich, Silbernes Verdienstzeichen mit Etui und Miniatur). Instituted 2 April 1952. (1952-present issue). Constructed of silvered bronze, on loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon, consisting of a Maltese Cross, the obverse with red and white enameled arms, overlaid by a white enameled Latin Cross, with a suspension consisting of a finely-detailed Second Republic-style Austrian national eagle circumscribed by state shields, unmarked, the cross measuring 46.13 mm (w) x 48.05 mm (h), including a stick pin miniature, constructed of bronze with multi-coloured enamels, unmarked, measuring 16.52 mm (w) x 16.38 mm (h), accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a heavy card stock frame with a faux red leather exterior, the lid bearing a gilt embossed Austrian coat of arms, the interior with a padded white satin-type lid liner and intact hinge cover, maker marked “WOLFGANG REITTERER, WIEN”, with a slotted black velvet medal bed, opening with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release and a functional metal hinge, unmarked, measuring 74 mm (w) x 128 mm (l) x 28 mm (h), in overall extremely fine condition.