Austria, Empire. A Merit Cross “1849”, Fourth Class With Swords, C.1914 Hold typed "Mit Luftschiff LZ 129

typed "Mit Luftschiff LZ 129 nach Nordamerika" above and an Air Mail label inscribed "MIT LUFTPOST PAR AVION" below

hand embroidered wings and leaves in silvered bullion wire

He bravely laid down his life for the cause of his country

with its full-size period original 100 mm wide ribbon

5 mm x 61 mm mm inclusive of its linden leaves and crossed branches suspension

Austria, Empire. A Merit Cross “1849”, Fourth Class With Swords, C.1914 Hold typed "Mit Luftschiff LZ 129(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 swivel crown and loop for suspension; the loop marked Wilhelm Kunz, Wien along with a star; suspended