Austro-Hungarian Military Merit Cross Set – 1st Class Breast Star 2nd Class Neck

• Decoration Represented: Militärverdienstkreuz (Military Merit Cross), Austro-Hungarian Empire
• Established: 22 October 1849 by Emperor Franz Joseph I
• Material: Gilt and silver-tone metal with enamel
• • 1st Class breast star with pin
  • 2nd Class neck badge with ribbon
• Finish: carefully made enamel with detailed reverse
• Packaging: Securely packed for worldwide shipping

The Military Merit Cross (Militärverdienstkreuz) was founded in 1849 by Emperor Franz Joseph I, initially as a single-class award for officers demonstrating exceptional service in war or peace.

Key developments included:

• 1860: Addition of the green laurel wreath to mark wartime service (War Decoration).
• 1914: Expanded into three classes:
  • 3rd Class (trifold ribbon)
  • 2nd Class (neck badge)
  • 1st Class (breast star)
• 1916–1917: Introduction of crossed swords for bravery, and the option for multiple awards.
• With Diamonds: Reserved personally by the Emperor for senior commanders and distinguished allies.

The decoration became obsolete in 1918 with the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, but remains one of the most iconic Imperial honors.

This collector-grade reproduction set reproduces the 1st Class breast star and 2nd Class neck badge in detail, making it ideal for collectors of Austro-Hungarian, German, and WWI-era orders.