Hesse, Grand Duchy. A General Merit Medal, Silver Grade, by J. Ries, c.1890
(Allgemeines Ehrenzeichen Für Verdienste). Instituted 8 June 1889 by Grand Duke Ludwig IV. (1889-1894 issue). Constructed of silver, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, the obverse with a rightward-facing profile of Grand Duke Ludwig IV, circumscribed by name and title, the reverse with a central inscription of “FÜR VERDIENSTE” (“FOR MERIT”), within a laurel and oak leaf wreath, the obverse maker marked “J. RIES”, measuring 33.14 mm in diameter, weighing 14.9 grams, in near extremely fine condition.

