SAXE-COBURG AND GOTHA MEDAL FOR MERIT IN WAR WITH SWORDS – DUKE CARL EDUARD

This striking Imperial German medal from the Duchy of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha features a finely detailed bust of Duke Carl Eduard on the obverse, facing right, surrounded by the inscription: CARL EDUARD HERZOG V. SACHSEN-COBURG U. GOTHA. The reverse displays the Saxon coat of arms within an eight-pointed star and the Latin motto "FIDELITER ET CONSTANTER" ("Faithfully and Steadfastly").

Suspended from a beautifully preserved red moiré silk ribbon with central and edge yellow stripes, this example includes the crossed swords device pinned to the ribbon, denoting a military issue during World War I. This variant signifies wartime merit rather than peacetime civil service.

Features:

• Circular silver medal with exceptional detail and age patina.

• Full ribbon intact with original fastening device.

• Crossed swords device affixed to the ribbon.

• Crisp Latin and German inscriptions.

• Raised rim with elegant border detail.

Historical Context:

Instituted by Duke Carl Eduard during the First World War, this medal recognized both officers and enlisted men of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha for acts of loyalty and distinguished service. The duke—himself a cousin to the British royal family and a complex figure in WWI German politics—personally oversaw many such awards.

Condition:

Very fine to excellent, with attractive age toning and light oxidation around the medal’s relief. Ribbon retains its structural integrity despite minor fraying at the folds. The swords remain securely fastened and the portrait of Duke Carl Eduard is sharp and full of character.

Display Suggestions:

This piece is ideal for WWI-era German medal collections, particularly those focused on minor duchies, Saxon principalities, or British-German royal lineage connections. It presents well framed or in a medal bar case alongside Iron Crosses or other Saxon state decorations.