Austria, Empire. A Merit Cross 1849, Iv Class, By F.braun, C.1870 Auction Archive Lüdenscheid” in black lettering

Lüdenscheid” in black lettering

surmounted by a silver and red enamelled Bulgarian crown

Constructed of grey cotton machine embroidery

41 mm x 41 mm

The name of the recipient is etched on the rim

Austria, Empire. A Merit Cross 1849, Iv Class, By F.braun, C.1870 Auction Archive Lüdenscheid” in black lettering(Verdienstkreuz). Instituted in 1849. First Period (1849 1875). In silver with red enamels, maker marked "F. BRAUN IN WIEN" on the ring, measuring 30. 2 mm (w) x 33. 7 mm (h) inclusive of laterally pierced ball suspension, chipping evident in the red enamels on the arm at 3 o'clock on the obverse, replacement triangular ribbon with hook and eye, better than very fine.