Franjo von Miskić (1828–1900): Habsburg officer, poet and collector

Abstract

The paper examines the life and activities of Franjo von Miskić (1828–1900), a Habsburg army officer, poet, and numismatist, a figure until recently relatively unknown outside of specific numismatic circles, where he was recognised for his impressive collection of coins and medals. However, Miskić’s legacy includes significant accomplishments beyond his passion for collecting. A deeper look at his military career reveals a dedicated Habsburg officer who entered service in 1848, following in his father’s footsteps. As a young man, he moved to Vienna around 1842 to enroll in the Technical Military Academy (Technische Militärakademie). In his final year of study, the First Italian War of Independence (1848/1849) broke out, leading to Miskić and six other cadets being appointed as second lieutenants by special decree from the Ministry of War and dispatched to the Italian front as members of the technical engineering corps. Over the next 33 years, he advanced through the military ranks, reaching the rank of colonel in 1878, and was recognised with numerous honors, including the title of knight (Ritter) and the Order of the Iron Crown, 3rd Class, just before his retirement in 1880. Among his notable achievements was his role as an instructor at the prestigious Technical Military Academy, the same institution where he had begun his studies. In this role, he taught mathematical geography, the art of measurement, and fortification techniques, leaving a lasting influence on the academy and its students. Miskić was also an avid poet, and the paper explores his poetry collection, Aus verklungenen Tagen (From Days Gone By), which provides a unique glimpse into his thoughts and experiences. The collection, nowadays preserved in the Austrian National Library in Vienna, is divided into six parts, and in addition to 125 original poems—written in German—it also includes 56 translations of works by the Hungarian poet Sándor Petőfi. Miskić’s poetry is rich in autobiographical details, covering personal loss, loyalty, and reflections on his life’s journey. His writing also captures local folk customs and significant historical events he witnessed, showcasing his interest in and knowledge of the cultures and traditions of the regions in which he served. The poetry, influenced by Romanticism, reveals Miskić’s philosophical views and a sense of melancholy that permeates his reflections on military service, personal sacrifice, and existential topics. Finally, the article also delves into Miskić’s passion for numismatics. His collection was highly regarded, containing coins and medals from numerous countries. In the year of his death, the collection was valued at 10,000 forints and Miskić intended to donate it to the City of Zagreb. However, the city authorities rejected the offer, citing an excess of German coins. Frustrated, Miskić sold the collection for 4,000 forints, which was subsequently acquired by the Viennese firm Brüder Egger and auctioned in 1900.