Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, Duchy. A Saxe-Ernestine House Order, Silver Merit Medal with Sword Clasp 1914
(Sachsen-Ernestinischen Hausorden, Silberne Verdienstmedaille mit Schwerterspange 1941). Instituted 25 December 1833 by Duke Friedrich of Saxe-Altenburg, Duke Ernst I of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, and Duke Bernhard II of Saxe-Meiningen. (1914 issue). Constructed of silver, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon with 1914 clasp and crossed swords, the obverse with a central rightward-facing profile of Duke Carl Eduard of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, circumscribed by name and title, the reverse with a central raised Saxe-Ernestine House Order, circumscribed by an inscription of “FIDELITER ET CONSTANTER” (“FAITHFUL AND STEADFAST”), unmarked, measuring 30.25 mm in diameter, weighing 21.2 grams (inclusive of ribbon and clasp), in near extremely fine condition.

