History

The Order of the Lion of Finland was instituted on September 11, 1942. It was established as an award to recognize multiple types of merit within the actions of military personnel and civilians. Grand Master of the Order is the President of Finland.

The Finnish name of the Order is "Suomen Leijonan ritarikunta".

The award is structured as follows:
Commander Grand Cross
Commander Grand Cross Breast Star
Commander, I Class
Commander, I Class Breast Star
Commander
Knight, I Class
Knight (with round rosette)
Cross of Merit
Pro Finlandia Medal (awarded to artists and writers)

The Knight differs from the Knight I Class in that the latter is worn with a round rosette.

The Pro Finlandia Medal is a special Decoration and is only conferred upon artists and authors.

The ribbon for all Classes is dark red.