Physical Description

A smooth circular medal, constructed of silver. The obverse of the medal features the left-facing portrait of Duke Ernst II with the circular inscription ‘ERNST II. HERZOG VON SACHSEN ALTENBURG’. Below the neck is the artist’s signature ‘GENTHE’. The reverse features a laurel wreath tied by a ribbon at the bottom, with the inscription ‘DEM VERDIENSTE UM KUNST UND WISSENSCHAFT‘ in the centre. On a loop for suspension, on a green ribbon with silver side stripes.

History

The Medal for Art and Science was introduced on December 30, 1874 by Duke Ernst I. The medal was awarded in recognition of extraordinary achievements and exceptional service within the fields of art and science.

The medal was established in four grades, Gold Medal with Crown, Gold Medal, Silver Medal with Crown, and Silver Medal.

The medals were redesigned after Duke Ernst II ascended to the throne. The Type III medals feature his left-facing portrait.