Austria, Imperial. An Early Military Merit Cross, c.1860 Province of China in frosted silver with red

in frosted silver with red and blue enamels

with material fatigue evident to both the rayon and canvas features

He rejoined his unit on May 24th

but is most noted for his later exploits as a panzer commander on the Eastern Front

Austria, Imperial. An Early Military Merit Cross, c.1860 Province of China in frosted silver with redInstituted October 24, 1849. Type I. (Civil Division). An early and well constructed cross, in silver and red enamels, the obverse medallion featuring the inscription VER DIENST, the reverse is of white enamels, measures 29. 87 mm (w) x 34. 18 mm (h), weighs 13. 46 grams inclusive of ribbon, worn on a thick original double barrel suspension loop and trifold ribbon, very minor enamel wear to the reverse, dark patina, extremely fine.