- Time Period: Interwar Period
- Year of Institution: 23 June 1923
- Country: Poland
The Cross of Merit (or Krzyż Zasługi in Polish) is a civil state decoration of Poland established on June 23, 1923, to recognize services to the state.
At the time of its establishment in 1923, the Cross of Merit was the highest civilian award in Poland. It was given to citizens who went beyond the call of duty in their work for the country and society as a whole.
The Order has three grades:
1. Gold Cross of Merit (Złoty Krzyż Zasługi)
2. Silver Cross of Merit (Srebrny Krzyż Zasługi)
3. Bronze Cross of Merit (Brązowy Krzyż Zasługi)
The Cross of Merit may be awarded twice in each grade to the same person.
The Cross of Merit Design
The medal is struck in silver or bronze (the first class with red and white enamels), measures 40.5 mm (w) x 40.5 mm (h) ad weighs approximately 24 grams. The shape is a cross with sunlight rays between the arms.
In the center medallion, in the obverse, are the initials RP (“Rzeczpospolita Polska” or Republic of Poland). The ribbon is red with white edges.
The medal was awarded with a molded box and a certificate.
