Silver Cross of Merit (Silbernes Verdienstkreuz) by V. Mayer’s Söhne of Vienna

[DUJAILAH]

Hi All, here's a small but very nice medal in silver & red enamels on a wartime issue ribbon. The motto around the F.J. is ‘VIRIBUS UNITIS’ (strength through unity). The cross was instituted on 16th Feb. 1850. The date 1849 is the year of Emperor Franz Joseph came to the throne. It was issued in four grades - Gold with and without Crown and Silver with and without Crown - to be awarded for true and lasting devotion to the monarch and the fatherland. Also given for for long and useful public service. It's maker marked on the ring to V. Mayer’s Söhne of Vienna who were court jewellers to the Emperor,

Cheers,

Richard.