Austria, Empire. A Lot of Two Merit Crosses “1849” with Rudolph’s Crowns, Third Period (1914-1918), c. 1918

A lot of to Imperial Austrian Merit Crosses “1849” with Rudolph’s Crowns, Third Period (1914-1918). (Verdienstkreuz “1849”). Instituted on December 2nd, 1849, consisting of:

1. A Merit Cross “1849”, II. Class with Rudolph’s crown. Constructed of gilded bronze with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Ruppert Cross with red enameled arms, the obverse with a central white enamelled medallion bearing a central gilt monogram of Franz Joseph I, circumscribed by the inscription of “Viribus Unitis” (“United Forces”), the reverse with a central white enamelled medallion bearing the gilt date of “1849”, on a gilded and enameled swivel crown suspension with loop connecting to a period original tri-fold ribbon, the loop is maker marked “Wilh. Kunz” and “Wien”, measuring 36.3 mm (w) x 59.0 mm (l), weighing 16.35 grams, with light verdigris present on the “FJ” on the obverse and “1849” on the reverse, and the enamels well preserved, in better than very fine condition. 

2. A Merit Cross “1849”, IV. Class with Rudolph’s crown. Constructed of silver with red enameled, consisting of a Ruppert Cross with red enameled arms, the obverse with a central medallion bearing a central monogram of Franz Joseph I in silver, circumscribed by the inscription of “Viribus Unitis” (“United Forces”) also in silver, the reverse with a central medallion in silver bearing the date of “1849”, on a silver swivel crown for suspension with a loop connecting to a period original tri-fold ribbon, the loop is maker marked “Wilh. Kunz” and “Wien” as well as “W.K”, and hallmarked “1 Diana Head A” for .800 silver purity and manufacture in Vienna, measuring 36.7 mm (w) x 58.2 mm (l), with the red enamels beautifully vibrant and extremely well preserved, in near extremely fine condition.