Physical Description

A smooth circular medal with a raised edge, constructed of gold. The obverse features the right-facing portrait of Duke Carl August. In the shoulder area is the stamp cutter’s signature ‘ANDRIEU F.’. The reverse features a wreath of wheat ears, roses, and flowers, tied multiple times by a ribbon, with the inscription ‘MITESCVUNT ASPERA SAECLA’ (‘mild turn rough times’) in the centre. Initially, medals were not wearable. As of 1820, the medals featured a loop for suspension, on a red ribbon.

History

The Merit Medal, Type I was instituted by Duke Carl August of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach in 1814. It was awarded on the ribbon of the Order of the White Falcon and was reserved for general merit. The medal did not have to be returned after the recipient’s death, however, the family was not allowed to sell it. It could be returned to the Saxon order chancellery in exchange for the material cost.

During the designing process, several medals with different reverse inscriptions were produced. Some of those featuring the inscription ‘MITESCVNT ASPERA SAECLA’ were awarded.