Physical Description

A circular medal constructed of silver or silver-plated bronze. The obverse bears the bust of Carl II encompassed by the inscription "CARL HERZOG ZU BRAUNSCHWEIG". The reverse bears the inscription "FÜR CIVIL VERDIENSTE 1815" encompassed by an open ended laurel wreath. On a loop for suspension, on a light blue ribbon with white stripes.

History

The Civil Merit Medal was established by Carl II, Duke of Brunswick, around 1827. Carl II was the son of the legendary "Black Duke" who was killed in the Battle of Quatre-Bras on June 16, 1815. Carl II ruled under the tutelage of the Prince Regent. Carl II entered government in 1823, and in 1826 he forced the council out of office. His actions resulted in political chaos, and a riot broke out on July 7, 1830. For this reason, a limited number of Civil Merit Medals were awarded.
The Civil Merit Medal was conferred upon civilians who demonstrated virtue and merit in 1815, the final year of the Napoleonic Wars.