The Imperial Austrian Franz Joseph Order
The Imperial Austrian Franz Joseph Order
was founded by the Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria on December 2, 1849 on the
first anniversary of his assumption of the Imperial Crown. The order was
originally awarded in three classes: Grand Cross, Commander's Cross, and
Knight's Cross.
Front
The Knight's Cross (in silver on the photo)
was usually suspended from a triangular red ribbon on the left breast. In
common with the other Austro-Hungarian awards of the period 1914-1918, the
Franz Joseph Order was further distinguished with the addition of the War decoration
(as seen on the photo) and Swords. The actual award was usually presented for
distinguished service as opposed to gallantry in the face of the enemy.
Back
The order ceased to exist with the
dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918. It was not re-established with
the foundation of the Republic of Austria in 1919 when titles became illegal.
Bandribbon with the Franz Joseph Order miniature.
