Austria, Empire. A Merit Cross “1849”, Iv Class, C.1914 Newly Listed Rhön Segelflug Wettbewerb” in block

Rhön Segelflug Wettbewerb” in block lettering

Hannibal on June 20

arriving the next the day

as a Midshipman on September 15

Austria, Empire. A Merit Cross “1849”, Iv Class, C.1914 Newly Listed Rhön Segelflug Wettbewerb” in block(Verdienstkreuz 1849 4. Klasse). Third Period Issued 1914 1918. A cross constructed of silvered bronze with red enameled arms; the obverse with a central silver medallion inscribed FJ for Franz Joseph, surrounded by a broad silver ring, inscribed VIRIBUS UNITIS (Latin Stand United); the reverse with a similar central silver medallion dated 1849; on a replacement loop for suspension from its period original tri fold ribbon; measuring 35. 77 mm (w) x