Austria, First Republic. A Merit Order I Class Grand Cross, Special Grade, By Anton Reiterer, C.1934 GTRexclude The handle grip itself features

The handle grip itself features raised oak leaf designs

flanked by a maker’s code of “M7/40” for the firm of Hartkopf & Co

engraved with an identification number of “VII B

Barter was to begin what would become a series of hospital visits

Austria, First Republic. A Merit Order I Class Grand Cross, Special Grade, By Anton Reiterer, C.1934 GTRexclude The handle grip itself features(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