Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, Duchy. A Saxe-Ernestine House Order, Golden Merit Medal, c.1910
(Goldene Verdienstmedaille des Herzoglich Sachsen-Ernestinischen Hausordens). Instituted 25 December 1833 by Duke Friedrich of Saxe-Altenburg, Duke Ernst I of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, and Duke Bernhard II of Saxe-Meiningen. (1905-1914 issue). Constructed of gilded silver, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, the obverse with a rightward-facing profile of Duke Carl Eduard, circumscribed by name and title, thee reverse with a central depiction of the Saxe-Ernestine House Order, circumscribed by an inscription of “FIDELITER ET CONSTANTER” (“FAITHFUL AND STEADFAST”), unmarked, measuring 30.50 mm (w) x 33.78 mm (h), weighing 18.2 grams (inclusive of ribbon), a small gouge is evident to the reverse, in overall near extremely fine condition.