The King's Medal of Merit
The King’s Medal of Merit was founded by King Haakon VII on 1 February 1908. It is conferred as recognition of contributions of particular benefit to society in fields such as art, culture, science, business, social and humanitarian work.
Over the nearly 120 years the medal has existed, around 37,000 people have received this distinction. Some have been pioneers or have made extraordinary contributions to activities of public benefit. Many have devoted years to voluntary work within their local communities. What they all share is a lifetime of service that stands as an example to others.
A wide range of professions is represented. Among the recipients are nurses, farmers, postmen, mechanics, glassblowers, factory workers, trade union representatives, teachers, directors, Sunday school teachers, actors, sports leaders, fishermen, Salvation Army officers, doctors, authors, and musicians — to name but a few.
Reception at the Royal Palace
It is a tradition that all recipients of the King’s Medal of Merit are invited to a reception at the Royal Palace. The King and Queen host the event, where the medal recipients and their guests are treated to refreshments, speeches, and often a musical performance.
All the Names Online
To mark the medal’s 100th anniversary in 2008, the information contained in the Order Chancery’s handwritten records from 1908 onwards was digitised. On the anniversary day, all 35,000 recipients up to that point were made searchable online.