The silver cross "For Merit," together with the upper classes, was established by the three dukes on March 25, 1833. The first coinage of the cross was granted from 1833 to 1866. The first form has another ring on the front with the motto of the order. On the back of the font is the date of foundation. The 2nd form differs from the 1st form in the following characteristics: the crosses are slightly larger and heavier, and the cruciform arms are more convex, the middle signs are 18 mm instead of the previously 19-20 mm, the laurel wreath is wider in front, and there are deviations in the font and portrait of Ernst the Pious. In total, 4 forms of the cross were made. 1st form from 1833, 2nd form from 1834 to 1890, 3rd form from 1890 to 1914, and 4th form from 1916 to 1918. The main feature of the 3rd and 4th. The shape is a fine-grained cross-shaped weapon. Mold 3 has embossed medallions. The 4th form again has - & - in the motto and separately laid medallions and was awarded only in Saxony Coburg and Gotha.
With the 2nd form, different spellings "and" are found, as - & - or - ET -. Since 1866, the cross could also be awarded with swords through the center for military merit. During World War I, crosses with numbers of the year on the upper and lower cross sleeves of the front were also awarded. Above 1914 and below the corresponding war year 1915, 1916, 1917 or 1918. These crosses are extremely rare. Source: J. Nimmergut, Deutsche Orden und Ehrenzeichen bis 1945, vol. III, 1999.
Silver cross in Maltese uniform. The cruciform shoulders are smooth with a small raised edge. Front and back with a round bloated middle shield. Between the upper tips, a conventional eye with a ribbon ring is soldered.
Front side:
Downside:
Tape:
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Obverse: Silver Cross of Merit of the Duchy of Saxe-Ernestine Order of the House 2.Form "&"
Reverse: Silver Cross of Merit of the Duchy of Saxony-Ernestine House Order 2.Form "&"
Awards of World War II