History

The Order of Social Merit was created by the decree of October 25, 1936. It replaced the Medal of Honour for Mutual Aid, the Medal of Honour of Social Providence, and the Medal of Honour for Welfare. It was later suppressed when the National Order of Merit was instituted in 1963.

The Order was awarded for exceptional service in institutions concerned with social legislation.

A Knight required at least 5 years of service. Knights could be promoted to Officer after 8 years, and Officers could be promoted to Commander after 5 years.

The obverse inscription translates to "Social Merit," and the reverse inscription translates to "Ministry of Labour."

There may be versions that vary in size, composition, and manufacturer.