Historical information

The Military Merit Medal was founded by Emperor Franz Joseph 1st on March 12 1890.

The Medal was awarded in both peacetime for meritorious service and in wartime for outstanding acts. ( Including bravery or military merit).

Significance

Historic Significance.

Physical description

Bronze, Silver or Gold Medal with bust of the reigning Emperor on the obverse side. The words "SIGNUM LAUDIS" (Latin for "Sign of Praise") on the reverse.

It is surrounded by a wreath of half - laurels and half- oak leaves.

The medal is surmounted by a dual crowns "Karl 1st type" and worn from a tri-fold ribbon.

On the ribbon there are two crossed swords.