Hesse, Grand Duchy. A Merit Medal Prototype Archive The grip section is made

The grip section is made of black checkered bakelite

matching hardware in place for hangers and portepee

gilt wear on the first two medals

the reverse maker marked “E

marked "RZM 1053/38" (WKC

Hesse, Grand Duchy. A Merit Medal Prototype Archive The grip section is made(Verdienstmedaille Prototyp). Constructed of neusilber, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, the obverse with a leftward facing profile of Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig, circumscribed by name and title, the reverse with an inscription of FR TREUE DIENSTE (FOR FAITHFUL SERVICE), within a laurel and oak leaf wreath, unmarked, measuring 33. 10 mm in diameter, weighing 16. 7 grams (inclusive of ribbon), in extremely fine condition.