Original Item. Only One Available. The Military Merit Medal (or Militär-Verdienstmedaille in German) is a military decoration of the Empire of Austria-Hungary founded by Emperor Franz Joseph I on March 12, 1890 and only awarded to officers and officials of similar rank. The Military Merit Medal is often referred to as the “Signum Laudis” (Latin for “Sign of Praise”) after the inscription on the reverse of the medal. It was awarded in peacetime for meritorious service and in wartime for outstanding acts, including bravery or military merit.

The medal originally came in one class, a gilt bronze version, and repeat awards were not authorized. On March 26, 1911, a Silver Military Merit Medal was founded, intended to reward those who would have earned a second award of the Military Merit Medal. It too could be awarded on either of the two ribbons. On December 13, 1916, the addition of a pair of gilt-crossed swords on the ribbon was authorized to recognize a higher grade of wartime merit.

The Military Merit Medal became obsolete with the fall of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy in November 1918.

This is a great example with a scarce second award clasp at the top. The medal is in great shape and comes in the original black velvet-lined case with a maker’s mark on the interior lid. The top of the lid has the Austrian coat of arms. Some of the finish is flaking as shown.

The case has some damage and is partially torn from the hinge, so the closure no longer functions.

A great example, ready for display.