The Order of Merit
The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit was founded by King Olav V in 1985. It is conferred on foreign and Norwegian nationals as a reward for their outstanding service in the interest of Norway and mankind.
His Majesty The King is the Grand Master of the Order. The Order of Merit is divided into five classes:
- Grand Cross
- Grand Officer
- Commander
- Officer
- Knight
The Insignia of the Order is returned to the Council of the Order in the event of the promotion or death of the recipient.
The Order of Merit: Design
Design
The Insignia of the Order is the Cross of St. Olav, wrought in gold or silver, with a plain crown in each of the four corners formed by the arms of the cross, inlaid with a rounded, red cross in the centre with King Olav V’s monogram surmounted by a crown.
How the insignia is worn
The Knight’s Cross is worn on the left breast, and the Commander’s Cross is suspended from a ribbon around the neck. The Grand Cross is attached to a broad sash worn passing from the right shoulder to the left side. Women wear the Knight’s Cross and Commander’s Cross on the left breast attached to a bow made from the Knight’s Cross ribbon.
Nominations
Nominations for order recipients should be addressed to His Majesty the King and submitted to the Chancellery of the Royal Order of Merit at the following address:
Den Kgl. Norske Fortjenstorden
Ordenskanselliet
PB 8114 Dep., 0032 Oslo
