History

The Order was founded by Charles Albert, King of Sardinia and Savoy, and it was awarded to foreigners and national citizens who had brought honour to the State and Sovereign via their meritorious service in the civil realm. Recipients included, but were not limited to, artists, scientists, professors and educators, government officials, engineers, and inventors.

It was very rarely awarded to foreigners.

This Order was officially discontinued in 1946 after the fall of the Monarchy.

The original obverse design features the monogram of Charles Albert "CA," but following the death of Charles Albert on March 24, 1849, the monogram was replaced with “VE” for his successor, Victor Emmanuel II.

The Order was originally restricted to 12 recipients, but it was eventually amended to include a maximum of 70 Knights.