#1 • Austrian Empire Army Crosses (1813-14) Cannon Crosses

Part of British & World Medals (live auction by Bannerman Auctions)

High bid $150.00

Status: Sold

Austrian Empire Army Crosses (1813-14) Cannon Crosses. Pair of Austrian Empire Army Crosses ( aka. Cannon Crosses) 1813-1814. Pair includes; 1.) Austrian Empire brass/bronze Army Cross (1813-14). Medal exhibits some spotting and light corrosion. Medal presents proper ribbon (newer replacement). 2.) Austrian Empire brass/bronze Army Cross (1813-14). Medal exhibits some spotting, light corrosion dark toning and is missing oblong jump ring. Medal presents incorrect ribbon (wear and staining). Estimate: $200 - $400 Historical Background: The Army Cross 1813/14, also known as the "Cannon Cross" or Kanonenkreuz, was a military decoration established by Emperor Francis II of Austria on May 13, 1814. It was the first military mass award in the Habsburg Monarchy, intended for all soldiers who participated in the German Wars of Liberation against Emperor Napoleon I. The cross earned its nickname, "Cannon Cross," because it was reputedly made from captured French cannons. The obverse of the cross bears the inscription "GRATI PRINCEPS ET PATRIA FRANC. IMP. AUG" (A Grateful Prince and Country). During the First World War, the design of this decoration served as a model for the newly created Karl Troop Cross in December 1916. Today, the Army Cross 1813/14 is no longer awarded by Austria-Hungary.