Physical Description

A finely pebbled cross moline with smooth raised edges, constructed of silver gilt and enamel. The obverse centre medallion is enamelled in white and features the mirrored and intertwined monogram ‘FG’ in gold. The medallion ring is a narrow, green enamelled laurel wreath. The reverse is similar, except that the centre medallion features the inscription ‘FÜR 20JÄHRIGE TREUE DIENSTE’ (‘for 20 years of loyal service’). On a loop for suspension, on a blue ribbon with broad black side stripes and narrow yellow borders.

History

The Military Long Service Decoration was instituted on July 17, 1850 by Prince Friedrich Günther. The awards were conferred upon military personnel who rendered long and faithful service with the Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt army.

The decorations were no longer conferred after Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt signed a military convention with Prussia in 1867.

The Gold Cross for 20 Years was conferred upon officers in recognition of 20 years of irreproachable service.