Austria, Empire. A Cross Of Merit, Fourth Class With Swords, C.1915 Archive usually after the medal ribbons

usually after the medal ribbons

and as a rule awarded to distinguished leaders only

the outer two rows with wider rows of green threading

Pearkes later achieved the rank of Major General

Austria, Empire. A Cross Of Merit, Fourth Class With Swords, C.1915 Archive usually after the medal ribbons(Verdienstkreuz IV. Klasse). Issued 1914 1918. Third Period. A silver Latin cross with rounded edges, with red enameled arms on the obverse and reverse; the obverse with a central silver medallion, inscribed FJ (Franz Josef) in capital lettering; the reverse with a similar medallion, dated 1849; on a loop for suspension; suspended from a correct replacement ribbon with crossed swords; measuring 37. 67 mm (w) x 41. 47 mm (h); weighing 11. 4 grams; in