History

This Order is conferred upon civilians for outstanding service to the Republic, as well as meritorious service within scientific, political, humanitarian, and artistic endeavors. The order is presented in five grades: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight

The inscription on the reverse of Type I reads "merito militare" or "merito civile" whereas Type II inscriptions on the reverse read "merito civile e militare".

The Grand Officer is the same as the Commander, but is worn with a Grand Officer Breast Star.

There are many variations of this Order; some feature a crown.

There is limited information regarding this item.