Original Austrian-Hungarian Silver Merit Cross from 1849 in box

Original Austrian-Hungarian Silver Merit Cross from 1849, complete with its original presentation case.This decoration was instituted during the reign of Emperor Franz Joseph I and awarded for distinguished civil or military service to the state.The cross features the classic design with red enamel arms and a central medallion bearing the 'FJ' monogram, representing Franz Joseph.Around the medallion appears the motto 'Viribus Unitis', the personal motto of the emperor meaning 'With united forces'.The reverse side displays the date 1849, marking the year the decoration was established.The medal is suspended from the characteristic red and white ribbon associated with Austrian imperial awards.The piece is housed in its original presentation case by J.G. Bergmann, Vienna, a well-known manufacturer of award cases.Article number: 18618