Watch List notes:

AUSTRIA: Franz Joseph I, 1848-1916, zinc medal, 1916, Eisernes Verdienstkreuz (Iron Cross of Merit) in zinc alloy (Kriegsmetall), cross pattée alisée on laterally-pierced ball suspension; the face with a circular central medallion bearing the initials 'FJ' (for Emperor Franz Joseph I) encircled by a ring bearing the inscription 'VIRIBUS UNITIS' (Strength through Unity); the reverse with a circular central medallion bearing the date '1916' within a circular ring with a stylised laurel wreath; with old ribbon, EF. The cross was instituted on 1 April 1916 in two grades - Iron with and without Crown - as a need had been perceived for a grade below the existing Gold and Silver to reward the many people of lower ranks performing exceptional acts and services in wartime, especially in the support and auxiliary services. Early examples were in iron, but as wartime shortages became more acute, zinc alloy (Kriegsmetall, "war-metal") was substituted.

Estimate: 75-100 USD