Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Cross, III Class and an 1849 Merit Cross, I Class Cross certificate_of_authenticity set within a ribbed ring

set within a ribbed ring bearing the inscription “Gott mit uns” (God with us) with laurel branches within the Imperial crown

the jack composed of multiple pieces in red

an exceptionally rare unissued prototype version of one of the Third Reich’s highest distinctions in very fine condition

He began active service with Infanterie-Ersatz-Bataillon 319

Captain McLennan returned on furlough to Canada aboard the S

Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Cross, III Class and an 1849 Merit Cross, I Class Cross certificate_of_authenticity set within a ribbed ring(Goldenes Verdienstkreuz mit Krone). Instituted 16 February 1850. (1875 1914 issue). In bronze gilt, a cross with crown, with red enamel arms, the obverse medallion featuring the raised initials FJ on a white enamelled disc encircled by a chain pattern, the reverse bears the date 1849, measures 37. 2 mm (w) x 58. 7 mm (h), marked with a bronze star on the ring, worn on the original faded ribbon with crossed swords device, enamels intact, scattered