Physical Description

A smooth circular medal with a raised border, constructed of silver. The obverse features the left-facing portrait Duke Ernst with the circular inscription ‘ERNST HERZOG V. SACHSEN COBURG U. GOTHA’. Below the neck is the stamp cutter’s signature ‘HELFRICHT F.’. The reverse features a rue wreath, with the inscription ‘FÜR RETTUNG VON MENSCHENLEBEN’ (‘for saving of human lives’) in the centre. On a loop for suspension, on a green ribbon with white side stripes.

History

The Life Saving Medal, Type I was instituted by Duke Ernst II of Saxony-Coburg and Gotha on May 1, 1883. It was awarded to those who had saved others from mortal danger by risking their own lives.

The medal was awarded by the duke based on recommendations from the ministerial departments of the dukedoms of Coburg and Gotha. It did not have to be returned after the recipient’s death.

The ribbon of the medal was worn in the buttonhole of the coat or jacket, on uniforms in the second buttonhole from the top, even when the decoration was not worn on the ribbon bar.