History

The Medal of Maritime Virtue was established by King Carol II in 1936 as the Maritime Medal, but its name was changed only two years later. It was suppressed in 1947 after the abolition of the Romanian monarchy but was reinstated in 2000 following the collapse of the communist regime. It is currently awarded in two divisions to Romanian civilians and military personnel, as well as foreigners, in recognition of meritorious service at sea.

There are two models of the I Class Medal. The first model, awarded from 1936-1947, features a reverse inscription that translates to "For the Navy," while the current model features a reverse inscription that translates to "Maritime Virtue."

From 1936-1947 the I Class Medal was awarded to navigation personnel with a surmounting crown. From 1937-1947 it could be awarded with swords during periods of war, and from 1938-1947 it could be awarded with swords on a special war ribbon in recognition of acts of bravery. The current model is awarded in two divisions. The I Class Medal (Military Division, peacetime) features a surmounting wreath, and the I Class Medal (wartime) features a surmounting wreath with swords.

The previous versions are listed in the Medals & Decorations of the Kingdom of Romania (1881-1947).