Order of Merit of the Italian Republic

The badge, modified in 2001, bears the inscription "Al Merito della Repubblica" encircling the national coat of arms on the obverse and the Latin "Patriæ Unitati" (for the union of the country) and "Civium Libertati" (for the liberty of the citizens) encircling the head of Italia Turrita on the reverse. The six degrees with corresponding ribbons are as follows (with numbers to 2 June 2020):
The order is bestowed by decree of the President of the Italian Republic, as head of the orders of knighthood, on the recommendation of the President of the Council of Ministers. Except in exceptional circumstances, no one can be awarded for the first time a rank higher than Knight. The minimum age requirement is normally 35.
The Knight Grand Cross with Collar is awarded only to heads of state.