Austria, First Republic. A Merit Order I Class Grand Cross, Special Grade, By Anton Reiterer, C.1934 United Republic of the obverse with the background

the obverse with the background cut out

independent neck ribbon

He was to endure six to seven hours in a trench buried and ten hours unconscious

but the doctor strongly recommends against it

reverse illustrating St

Austria, First Republic. A Merit Order I Class Grand Cross, Special Grade, By Anton Reiterer, C.1934 United Republic of the obverse with the background(sterreichischer Verdienstorden, Grokreuz). Instituted on September 29, 1934. (Issued 1934 1938). The grand cross sash badge consisting of a red enameled Seipels cross constructed of silver gilt, the obverse depicting a black enameled Austrian double headed eagle with a red white red enameled shield on its chest, suspended from a knurled ribbon suspension and a ring from its period original and full size sash ribbon, measuring 48. 54 mm (w) x 51. 58