Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Medal, Silver Medal, By Rothe, C.1917 Hold but with sufficient finish remaining

but with sufficient finish remaining to positively identify this as a silver grade Infantry Assault badge

(Fürstlich Schwarzburgisches Ehrenkreuz I

silver gilt and eanmels

encircled by a red enamelled ring

which at the time (1938) was threatened to be invaded and occupied by Nazi Germany

Austria, Imperial. A Military Merit Medal, Silver Medal, By Rothe, C.1917 Hold but with sufficient finish remaining(Signum Laudis). Instituted March 12, 1890. Franz Joseph (1890 1917). A silver medal, the obverse presenting the right facing bust of Franz Joseph, the reverse inscribed SIGNVM LAVDIS surrounded by a laurel and oak leaf wreath, the medal is surmounted by a crown, measures 31. 5mm (w) x 52mm (h inclusive of cross adorned integral ring on crown), weighs 23. 9 grams (including ribbon), worn on original ribbon, edge knocks visible, lovely patina, very