101802 | AUSTRIA. Franz Joseph silver Medal.

101802  |  AUSTRIA. Franz Joseph silver Medal. Issued 1898 for the 50th anniversary of the emperor's reign (25mm, 7.99 g, 12h). By A. Scharff.

 

II DEC MDCCCXCVIII / TE SALVO AVSTRIA SALVA, contemporary bust right, in military attire and with older features; laurel wreath below / II DEC MDCCCXLVIII, prior bust left, in military attire and with youthful features. Edge: Circumscribed A.

 

Loehr 305; Wurzbach 2582; Hauser 981. Choice Mint State. Matte gunmetal gray surfaces, with a vibrant iridescence. Quite scarce when encountered this alluring and attractive.

 

Ex Richard Jewell Collection.

 

One of the longest reigning monarchs in history, Franz Joseph ascended to the Austro-Hungarian throne in 1848 following the upheaval of that year and the abdication of his uncle, Ferdinand I. For the next six decades, Franz Joseph would guide the empire, mostly reigning along with fellow long-serving sovereign, Queen Victoria of Great Britain. This medal marks the golden jubilee of Franz Joseph's reign in 1898, a monumental feat.

 

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