Physical Description

A Maltese cross smooth raised edges, constructed of silver and enamel. Between the cross arms is a rue wreath in green enamel and silver borders. The obverse centre medallion features the right-facing portrait of Duke Georg with the circular inscription ‘GEORG HERZOG ZU SACHSEN MEININGEN’. Below the neck is the stamp cutter’s signature ‘HELFRICHT F.’. The medallion ring is smooth and doubled. The reverse is similar, except that the medallion features an oak leaf wreath, tied at the top and bottom by a crossed ribbon, with the inscription ‘DEM VERDIENSTE’ (‘for merit’) above a crown in the centre. On a loop for suspension, on a green ribbon.

History

The Decoration for Art and Science was instituted on July 23, 1874 by Duke Georg I. The decoration was conferred in recognition of extraordinary achievements in the fields of art and science. The award, which was modelled after a similar decoration that was established in Saxe-Coburg, consisted of three grades: I Class Cross, II Class Gold Medal, and III Class Silver Medal.