History

The Portuguese Legion was founded in 1936 as a paramilitary organisation under the right-wing Estado Novo regime. It did not function in the same capacity as other contemporary European paramilitary organisations because it was not used by its leader to seize power. Instead, it was established after power was seized and used as a means to ensure the continuation of the regime. The Legion was disbanded in 1974 following the collapse of the Estado Novo.

The Portuguese Legion Merit Medal was awarded to Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, Legionnaires, and other servicemen of the Portuguese Legion in recognition of meritorious service. It could also be awarded posthumously.

The I Class Medal was awarded with a gold-coloured ribbon clasp. It has an obverse inscription that translates to "Portuguese Legion, Merit." There was a limit of 50 I Class Medals.