Austria, I Republic. An Order Of Merit, Commander Cross, I Class, By Anton Reitterer, C.1925 certificate_of_authenticity It was the first Order

It was the first Order founded as an Order of Merit based on the principle of equality of birth

McKinery with a strength of 36 officers and 1

green backing

Scattered chipping in the black paint on the cap badge

two group shots

Austria, I Republic. An Order Of Merit, Commander Cross, I Class, By Anton Reitterer, C.1925 certificate_of_authenticity It was the first Order(Ehrenzeichen fr die Verdienste um die Republik sterreich, Komturkreuz). Instituted 4 November 1922. (1922 1938 issue). Constructed of gilded bronze with enamels, consisting of a Crutch Cross with white enameled arms, with loops for suspension from period original neck ribbon, exhibiting the manufacturing characteristics of Anton Reitterer, measuring 40. 51 mm (w) x 47. 41 mm (h), weighing 32. 6 grams, minor flecking of enamels, otherwise in near