Romania Medal of Military Merit I Class 1954 - 1965

Circular gilt metal medal with loop for ribbon suspension; the face with crossed swords centrally within a laurel wreath, inscribed ‘R.P.R.’ (Republica Populară Română = People’s Republic of Romania) above, a five-pointed red enamel star imposed below; the reverse inscribed ‘MERITUL MILITAR’ (Military Merit) centrally with a laurel wreath, inscribed ‘R.P.R.’ above, a five-pointed red enamel star imposed below; on original ribbon and pentagonal hanger; in somewhat worn fitted embossed pasteboard case of issue. The medal was instituted on 10 June 1954 in two classes to reward long service and good conduct in the armed forces. The II class award was for 5 years’ service, the I class of 10 years. In 1965, when the name of the state was changed to the Romanian Socialist Republic, the letters ‘RSR’ replaced ‘RPR’. Unlike many Communist-era eastern European awards, those of Romania are usually of good quality manufacture. Condition II.