Physical Description

A circular medal constructed of gold. The obverse bears bust of King Wilhelm IV, encompassed by the inscription "WILHELM IV KONIG 1831". The reverse bears the inscription "VERDIENST UMS VATERLAND" (merit for the fatherland) within a laurel wreath. The edge of the medal is inscribed with the recipient's name. On a horizontally elongated loop for suspension, on a light blue ribbon.

History

The Civil Merit Medal was established in 1815 by Prince Regent George, later King George IV of Great Britain and Hanover, in the name of his father, King George III of Great Britain and Hanover. The Civil Merit Medal was established to publicly recognise and award exceptional civilian merit. The medal was issued in two grades: Silver and Gold. Medals were engraved with the name of the recipient on the rim. The stamp of the medal was produced by William Wyon, London.

The Gold Medal was conferred in recognition of particularly outstanding achievements. In order to receive the Gold Medal, an individual had to have first received the Silver Medal.

Type II medals feature the portrait of King Wilhelm IV. The Type II Gold Medal is very rare.