Physical Description

A smooth circular medal with a raised edge, constructed of silver. 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 GEWERBLICHES VERDIENST’ (‘for merit in trade’), surrounded by a wreath of laurel and oak leaves. At the bottom is the silver stamp ‘990’. On a loop for suspension, on a dark blue ribbon.

History

The Sevice Medal for Commercial and Industrial Merit was introduced in 1863 by Prince Günther Friedrich Carl II of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen. The medal was conferred in recognition of exceptional service and accomplishment in the fields of commerce and industry.

The Type II medals were introduced on December 7, 1889 by Prince Karl Günther of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen. The new medals featured the portrait of Prince Karl Günther on the obverse, as well as a new inscription.

The Type III medals were introduced in 1898 and they featured the portrait of an older Prince Karl Günther on the obverse.