#86 • Saxe - Gotha Altenburg Waterloo Medal

Part of British & World Medals (live auction by Bannerman Auctions)

High bid $400.00

Status: Sold

Saxe - Gotha Altenburg Waterloo Medal. Bronze (42mm in diameter) Waterloo medal awarded by Saxe-Gotha Altenburg to non-commissioned officers that served at Waterloo. Medal presents impressed words around the rim in capital letters being "HERZOGTH GOTHA VND ALTENBVRG MDCCCXIV-MDCCCXV". Medal exhibits significant polishing wear, light corrosion and some edge knocks. Medal presents proper ribbon (newer replacement) Only 223 of these medals were awarded. Estimate: $800 - $1000 Historical Background: The Saxe-Gotha Altenburg Waterloo Medal was instituted in 1815 to recognize service during the Napoleonic Wars, specifically related to the Battle of Waterloo. This medal was issued by the Duchy of Saxe-Gotha Altenburg. It was established in different versions depending on rank: officers received gilded medals, non-commissioned officers received bronze medals with gilt raised points, and other ranks received a bronze version. A reduced-size version was also created for officers. The medal itself is described as being made of bronze with gilt raised points and detailing, and it was often issued with a piece of its original ribbon. The edge of the medal was impressed with the inscription, "HERZOGTH GOTHA VND ALTENBVRG MDCCCXIV-MDCCCXV," indicating the Duke of Gotha and Altenburg and the years 1814-1815. This particular medal is distinct from the British Waterloo Medal, which featured a left-facing effigy of the Prince Regent and a reverse depicting Victory.