Ring of Honour of the City of Vienna

The Ring of Honour of the City of Vienna (Ehrenring der Stadt Wien) is a decoration awarded since 1925 to people who have made an outstanding contribution to the enhancement of the prestige of the city of Vienna through exceptional artistic or scientific achievements and found recognition beyond the borders of Austria. It is one of the highest distinctions of the city of Vienna.

History
The ring of honour was established by the Bürgermeister Karl Seitz, as confirmed by the Vienna City Constitution (Wiener Stadtverfassung) of 1968. It was first awarded in 1925, although strictly defined criteria for the award were not laid down.

Description
In its present form, which dates from 1946, the golden ring is mounted with a shield-shaped onyx plaque edged in gold on which is depicted, as in the seal of Vienna, an eagle also in gold with the arms of Vienna in coloured enamel on an escutcheon on its breast. The shanks of the ring are decorated with golden laurel leaves. The inside of the ring bears a small gold plaque engraved with a dedication to the recipient.