History

The Order of Police Merit (Orden del Mérito Policial) was founded by Francisco Franco as a medal of merit for the Spanish Police, on June 18, 1943. It was awarded to members of the Spanish Police in recognition of meritorious services during the performance of their duties.

The original grades were Gold Medal, Silver Medal, and Bronze Medal.

In 1964, the medal was promoted to Order, and new grades were added. Also, the Bronze Medal was suppressed.

The Order is currently conferred upon the Spanish Police in recognition of either extraordinary services rendered to Spain and the Police institution, or for remarkable studies and researches that improve the development and technique within the Spanish Police institution.

The current grades are Gold Medal, Silver Medal, Cross with Red Distinction, and Cross with White Distinction.

The Order features an obverse inscription that translates to “To Police Merit,” and a reverse inscription that translates to “Service, Sacrifice.”