Austria, Imperial. An 1849 Merit Cross, III Class with Case, by V. Mayer certificate_of_authenticity holding a decorative ornament in

holding a decorative ornament in her left hand

one of two rear attachment prongs broken off

It is the second highest decoration for individual acts of gallantry

the cap measures approximately 275 mm (l) x 125 mm (h) when folded flat

Austria, Imperial. An 1849 Merit Cross, III Class with Case, by V. Mayer certificate_of_authenticity holding a decorative ornament in(Verdienstkreuz 1849). Instituted December 2, 1849. Type III (1914 1918). In silver and enamels with red enameled arms; the obverse with a central silver medallion inscribed FJ for Franz Joseph, surrounded by a broad silver ring, inscribed VIRIBUS UNITIS (Latin Stand United); the reverse with a similar central silver medallion dated 1849; on a swivel crown and loop for suspension; the loop marked V. MAYERS SOHNE, along with Austrian silver mark,