Physical Description

A smooth circular medal with a raised edge, constructed of gold. The obverse features the right-facing portrait of Duke Karl Günther, with the circular inscription ‘KARL GÜNTHER FÜRST Z. SCHWARZB. SONDERSHAUSEN’. The reverse features the inscription ‘FÜR VERDIENST U. KUNST U. WISSENSCHAFT’ (‘for merit in art and science’), surrounded by a wreath of laurel and oak leaves. On a loop for suspension, on a dark blue ribbon.

History

The Medal for Art and Science was first instituted in 1858 by Prince Günther Friedrich Carl II. The medal was conferred upon citizens of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen in recognition of exceptional service in the field of art or science.

The Type III medals were instituted in 1898 and feature a portrait of an older Prince Karl Günther on the obverse.