Austria, Imperial. A War Merit Cross In Gold, By Vincent Mayer’s Sohne, C. 1918 Auction three bronze stars on WWIVM

three bronze stars on WWIVM ribbon

holding the two black pillows bearing the medals

leading to speculation that the body might have possibly been moved there later on

measuring 56 mm x 41 mm

maker marked “H&C

Austria, Imperial. A War Merit Cross In Gold, By Vincent Mayer’s Sohne, C. 1918 Auction three bronze stars on WWIVM(Goldenes Verdienstkreuz mit Etui). Instituted December 2, 1849 by Emperor Franz Joseph. An 18kt Gold (tested) cross pattee with red enamelled arms, the center obverse presenting a FJ on a white enamel field within a Gold border, surrounded by the inscription VIRIBUS UNITIS (Strength Through Unity), the reverse presents 1849 in Gold on a white enamel field, in a Gold lightly pebbled border, surmounted by a delicate crown, measures 35. 63mm (w) x 55.