German Awards - Ernst II Life Saving Medal.

After the death of Duke Ernst I in 1908, the Duke donated to Ernst II. a new life-saving medal with his image on the front. Duke Ernst I first instituted the Lifesaving Medal in 1882. It should be awarded to persons who, risking their own lives, that is, risking their lives, saved the victim. The medal was awarded at the initiative/suggestion of the Ministry of the Interior. The purpose and rules of giving were probably established by Ernst II. persists or continues. The new design of the stamp was made by sculptor Julie Gente from Leipzig. The medal was not refundable. Due to the very short award period and small size of the duchy, it is one of the rarest lifesaving medals. At the time of the First World War, awards can be practically excluded. Only 5 years left. Under Duke Ernst I, only 40 medals were minted in 26 years, and by 1906 only 24 had been awarded. Carefully in the ratio should be made no more than 10 awards. Unfortunately, the exact numbers are unknown. The medal was worn on a white ribbon with black edge stripes. Source: Badges of Honor of the Duchy of Saxe-Altenburg - decorations of the Duchy of Saxony of the Ernestine Order - 1814-1918, catalog for the exhibition 2002-2003 Altenburg Castle and Museum of Playing Cards.

Silver medal with slightly raised border. Above is a soldered ordinary eye with a ribbon ring.

Front side:

• Along the edge about 3/4 above the inscription: - ERNST - II.- HERZOG - VON -
• - SAXONY - (-) - ALTENBURG -.
In the
• center of the picture is a portrait of Duke Ernst II.
In
• the cervical section, a small signature - GENTHE -.

Downside:

A
• short distance from the edge above is an open wreath of oak leaves with fruits.
• At the bottom, it is tied with a double loop.
In
• a closed field, a five-line, raised font: - FOR -/- RESCUE -/- OFF. -/
• - DANGER TO LIFE. -.

Tape:

• white 38 mm wide, green edges 3 mm.

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