Established 13 August 1859, the order is presented for outstanding civil or military services to the Republic, or for humanitarian, artistic, political or scientific accomplishment.

The first rank of the Order is only awarded to sovereigns, members of reigning families, high state officials, or to those who have rendered extraordinary services to the Republic of San Marino.

The badge is charged on one side with a round shield, circled in blue with the words: San Marino Protettore.

On the other side, the San Marino coats of arms is encircled by the words Merito Civile e Militare and the badge is bordered by a golden crown.

This is charged with a blue, round shield with the inscription: Relinquo vos liberos ab utroque homine.