Latvian Trailblazer awarded Medal of Merit

Citation: "For his tireless efforts in bringing hundreds of newly created regional and municipal coats of arms to life and in the process making heraldry an integral part of the Latvian national character, the Board awards the Heraldic Institute Medal of Merit to Edgar Sims, resident artist to the Latvian State Heraldry Commission. Despite his vast production in recent years, he never fails to maintain high quality and a distinct style in all his work, thus making a lasting contribution to the expression of an independent Latvia."

*Medal of Merit*
The Heraldic Institute Medal of Merit honours individuals for their long-standing or exceptional service in heraldry and related fields. A process similar to that used by state or national awards of merit is used to choose a recipient: a nomination portfolio is submitted to the Heraldic Institute by third parties familiar with the nominee’s work. This is scrutinised by a committee who may make further enquiries. Currently the Board is serving as that committee. If successful, the recipient is then informed directly and the Medal of Merit handed over in a suitable manner.

A maximum of three awards will be made annually, and no awards will be made if no suitable candidates can be found.

*Heraldic Institute*
The Heraldic Institute e.V., through its Fellowship of distinguished heraldic experts and artists, wishes to promote good heraldic practices and seeks to foster the better understanding and acceptance of national differences and traditions through heraldry. We thus see heraldry not just as a beautiful art and helpful historical science, but also as a tool for the better understanding amongst peoples.

The Institute specialises in sharing knowledge in a way that transcends traditional educational frameworks whilst drawing inspiration from the heritage of ancient learned societies. The Heraldic Institute is supported by voluntary contributions and run by volunteers. We are a state-registered association with not-for-profit status within the Federal Republic of Germany. Our board, finances and articles of association are a matter of public record and subject to scrutiny.

For further information please see: https://www.heraldicinstitute.com/medalofmerit