Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, Duchy. A Merit Medal Prototype, by Friedrich Helfricht
(Verdienstmedaille Prototyp). Constructed of bronze, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a nine-pointed radiant star, the obverse with a central medallion bearing a leftward-facing profile of Duke Ernst I, circumscribed by name and title, the reverse with a central medallion bearing an inscription of “DEM VERDIENST” (“FOR MERIT”), above a royal crown and within an oak leaf wreath, the obverse marked “HELFRICHT F.”, measuring 38.33 mm (w) x 37.68 mm (h), weighing 27.9 grams (inclusive of ribbon), in extremely fine condition.

