The Medal of Merit (or Fortjenstmedaljen in Danish) is the oldest existing award medal given by the Kingdom of Denmark.
It was established by Christian VII on 16 May 1792 and was re-instituted by ordinance of Christian VIII on 24 July 1845. This prestigious medal is a personal award bestowed by the Sovereign.
This decoration highlights the individual achievements and contributions of the recipients, honoring their distinguished service and merit in a manner that is both personal and enduring.
Medal of Merit Design
The Medal of Merit comes in two versions, made of either gold or silver.
The obverse features a profile effigy of the reigning monarch, currently Queen Margrethe II, along with the inscription “Margareta II – Regina Daniæ.“
The reverse side bears the word “Fortient” (Merit) encircled by an oak leaf wreath. Uniquely, the recipient’s name is engraved on the edge of the medal, signifying that it is the personal property of the recipient and is not returned upon their death, unlike some chivalric orders.
The medal is suspended from a red ribbon with a white cross, reflecting the national colors of Denmark.
