Imperial Ethiopian Military Decoration with Amharic Inscription
Key Information:
• Country: Ethiopia (Ethiopian Empire)
• Award: Military Medal of Merit of the Order of St. George
• Grade: Medal
• Period: Early–Mid 20th Century
• Material: Bronze
• Dimensions approx.: 55 x 39 mm
Medal Design:
Obverse features Saint George on horseback slaying the dragon, a traditional Christian and imperial Ethiopian symbol.
Above the figure appears an inscription in Amharic (Ge’ez script): "ሚኒስትር ገዳም"
Translated into English as: "Minister of the Monastery" (ceremonial/Order reference).
Reverse displays a stylized cross with Amharic inscription: "ደርድ"
Translated as: "Merit" or "Valour".
The medal retains its original green and yellow ribbon.
Condition:
• Original ribbon present, with visible wear and fraying at the reverse
• Bronze with natural patina
• Minor surface marks consistent with age
• For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Military Medal of Merit of the Order of St. George was awarded within the Imperial Ethiopian honors system for bravery and distinguished military service. Decorations of this period reflect Ethiopia’s strong Christian symbolism and imperial identity under Menelik II and later Haile Selassie.
Original Ethiopian Empire awards remain collectible and increasingly difficult to find in complete condition.
Summary:
An original Imperial Ethiopian Military Medal of Merit of the Order of St. George featuring Amharic inscriptions and classic Saint George iconography, preserved with its original ribbon.