Austria – (First republic) Order of Merit, commander with star 1924-1938

Description

(Grosses goldene Ehrenzeichen für Verdienste um die Republik, Komturkreuz mit dem Stern).The Order was instituted on 4 November 1922 as Austria’s premier military and civil award and it could also be awarded to non-Austrian citizens.

It was abolished in 1938 when Austria was incorporated into Nazi Germany. Gilt-edged red enamel cross potent with loop and original decorative ring with a woven effect for ribbon suspension. The face and the reverse both plain. Eight-pointed diamond-cut silver star with the face of the badge.

The reverse mounted with pin wear and in the center a cartouche with the producer’s name Anton Reitterer of Vienna. Unfortunately, no case or ribbon.