Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, Duchy. A Saxe-Ernestine House Order, Silver Merit Medal with Swords

(Herzoglich Sachsen-Ernestinischen Hausordens, Silberne Verdienstmedaille mit Schwertern). 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 silver, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon with crossed sword clasp, the obverse with a raised rightward-facing profile of Carl Eduard, circumscribed by name and title, the reverse with a central raised depiction of the Saxe-Ernestine House Order, circumscribed by an inscription of “FIDELITER ET CONSTANTER” (“FAITHFUL AND STEADFAST”), unmarked, measuring 30.24 mm (w) x 33.23 mm (h), weighing 13.8 grams (inclusive of ribbon), in extremely fine condition.