Reflecting this history, the two orders utilized similar colors and designs.

After the fall of communism in Poland in 1989, it was decided to retain the order, with necessary changes.

The abbreviation "PRL" was changed to "RP," the Eagle was given a crown in accordance with Poland's original coat of arms, the date "1974" was removed from the reverse, and the color of the ribbon was changed from light cobalt blue to dark cobalt.

[1] Under the 1992 act, the order is awarded to foreigners or Poles resident abroad for distinguished contributions to international cooperation or cooperation between Poland and other countries.

[4][1] Recipients of the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland, the highest award of the class, have included Queen Elizabeth II, Henry Kissinger, and Edward Mosberg.