This item is part of The Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection. Click Here to view all items in this collection.
(Franz Joseph Orden Ritterkreuz, mit Schwertern). 1914-1918 Issue. A bronze gilt cross with double headed crowned eagle in silvered bronze, with a central white enameled medallion inscribed “FJ” in gold, along with chains and “Viribus Unitis” (Latin - United Strength) inscribed in gilt; the reverse of the cross with a a central white enameled medallion dated “1849,” with a swivel crown suspension and its period original tri-fold ribbon featuring crossed swords, maker marked on the ring for “V. MAYERS SÖHNE,” stamped with “IN WIEN,” stamped with five-pointed star hallmark denoting manufacture in bronze, measuring 31.19 mm (w) x 56.89 mm (h - inclusive of crown and horizontally pierced ball suspension, and in overall extremely fine condition.
Footnote: Approximately 19,160 recipients of the Knights Cross by the end of 1917.
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.