Austria, Empire. A Merit Cross "1849", I Class In Gold, By V.mayer, C.1900 certificate_of_authenticity measuring 22 mm (w) x

measuring 22 mm (w) x 14 mm (h)

with a fuller running down the length of each side

facing four reinforced buttonholes on the left

hardshelled case of issue

SCHEELENSTRASSE 17

Austria, Empire. A Merit Cross "1849", I Class In Gold, By V.mayer, C.1900 certificate_of_authenticity measuring 22 mm (w) x(Verdienstkreuz). Instituted in 1849. Type II (1875 1913). In Gold with red and white enamels, weighing 14. 6 grams, hallmarked with a goat's head flanked by a "3" on the left and an "A" (Vienna) on the right, and maker marked "V. MAYER & SHNE IN WIEN" on the ring, measuring 35. 5 mm (w) x 55. 5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, tiny scuff mark in the white enamels on the reverse centrepiece, very light contact overall, original triangular