Austria, Second Republic. A Cased Cross of Honour for Science and Art, I. Class, by Anton Reitterer, c. 1960

(Österreichische Ehrenzeichen für Wissenschaft und Kunst). Instituted May 25th, 1955. A dual Maltese Cross constructed of gilded bronze with red and white enameled enamels, the obverse with a central gilded medallion inscribed with “Litteris et Artibus” (Science and Art) in Latin capitalized lettering, the reverse plain, with a functional vertical pinback, maker marked “Anton Reitterer Schubertgasse 24 - Juwelier, Wien” in capitalized lettering, measuring 57.1 mm (w) x 57.1 mm (l), weighing 31.04 grams. Accompanied by its presentation case, constructed of a lightweight wooden core with a textured red faux leather (leatherette) exterior, the exterior of the lid embossed with “Litteris et Artibus” in gilt lettering, the interior of the lid lined with padded off-white silk, marked “Anton Reitterer Ordensjuwilier, Wien, IX, Schubertgasse 24” in gilt, with dual functional exterior metal hinges, intact interior fabric hinge cover, and functional push-button release mechanism, measuring 97 mm (w) x 97 mm (l), in near extremely fine condition.