Austria, Empire. An Order of the Knights of Malta, IV Class. Province of China certified by the handwritten signature

certified by the handwritten signature of an unidentified Major

this War was a key event in the process of Italian unification

1914” (“For Service in War

all medals court mounted on felt for display

European civil affairs division

Austria, Empire. An Order of the Knights of Malta, IV Class. Province of China certified by the handwritten signatureIn gilt bronze, obverse shows Maltese cross surrounded by laurel wreath and topped by Greek cross, reverse inscription reads Mil. Ordo Equitum Melitensium Bene Merenti, on original ribbon with red and white edge stripes denoting an Austrian award, inclusive of loop 49. 36 mm (h) x 36. 5 mm (w), very fine condition. Housed in original brown case. Footnote: The medal was instituted on 24 April 1912 by Decree 1879 of the Sovereign Council of the Order,