Hohenzollern, Dynasty. A House Order of Hohenzollern, Civil Division, Merit Medal in Silver
(Fürstlicher Hausorden von Hohenzollern, Silberne Verdienstmedaille). Instituted 5 December 1841 by Prince Friedrich Wilhelm of Hohenzollern-Hechingen and Prince Carl of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen. (1842-1918 issue). Constructed of silver, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a circular oak leaf wreath, the obverse bearing a central Hohenzollern coat of arms circumscribed by an inscription of “FÜR TREUE UND VERDIENST” (“FOR LOYALTY AND SERVICE”), the reverse bearing a central integrated monogram, circumscribed by a date of “DEN 1. JANUAR 1842”, unmarked, measuring 32.54 mm in diameter, weighing 15.9 grams, in extremely fine condition.

