History

The Medal of Merit was established as an extension of the Order of Merit in 2000. It is awarded to Romanian citizens in recognition of distinguished service to the nation, and to military personnel and units in recognition of distinguished service during combat. It may also be awarded to foreign ambassadors who have served in Romania.

Membership in the I Class grade is limited to 2000 members in the Civil Division and 400 members in the Military Division.

There are three versions of the I Class Medal. The I Class Medal (Military Division) and the I Class (wartime) both feature surmounting crossed swords, but the I Class Medal (wartime) is worn on a ribbon edged in gold. All three versions feature a reverse inscription that translates to "For Merit."

See also Honour Cross of Merit in the Medals & Decorations of the Kingdom of Romania (1881-1947), and the Order of Merit in the Medals & Decorations of the Kingdom of Romania (1881-1947) and Romania (1990-).