Imperial Ethiopian Order of Menelik II
Identification: Order of Menelik II (Ethiopian Imperial Medal) Key Features. Medal Design: Red enameled cross edged in green with a central medallion depicting the Lion of Judah, symbol of the Solomonic Dynasty. Crown: The medal is suspended from the Imperial Ethiopian Crown, indicating it's an imperial decoration. Ribbon: Yellow with green and red edges (Ethiopian national colors), often used in imperial orders. Inscription: In Ge'ez, it reads "???????? Historical Context: The Order of Menelik II was established by Emperor Haile Selassie I in honor of Emperor Menelik II, who is celebrated for defeating the Italians at the Battle of Adwa in 1896 and for leading Ethiopia into modernization.
This order was awarded for exceptional civil or military merit and was often given to high-ranking Ethiopian officials, foreign dignitaries, and influential contributors to the Ethiopian state. Type: Imperial Ethiopian Order of Menelik II (likely Officer or Commander Class).
Condition: Excellent; housed in its original case. Collectibility: High - very desirable among collectors of African imperial medals or Haile Selassie memorabilia.