Physical Description

A smooth circular medal with a raised edge, constructed of gold. The obverse features a crowned Saxon coat of arms with three tips and the circular inscription ‘FÜR GOTT UND VATERLAND 1814’ (‘for God and fatherland’). The reverse features two laurel branches forming a closed wreath, with the inscription ‘DER TAPFERKEIT UND DEM VERDIENSTE’ (‘for bravery and merit’) in the centre. On a loop for suspension, on a dark red ribbon with broad green borders.

History

The Military Merit Medal was jointly established in October 1814 by Duke Bernhard Erich Freund of Saxen-Meiningen, Duke Ernst I of Saxe-Coburg and Saalfeld, and Duke Friedrich of Saxen-Hildburghausen. The Medal was conferred upon military personnel who demonstrated bravery and merit in the field campaign against Napoleon.

Before the medal was officially awarded, a board reviewed the level of bravery, heroism, and self-sacrifice that a potential recipient displayed throughout the field campaign.

The Gold Medal was awarded to officers. It was awarded three times in Saxe-Meiningen.