Romania - Order of Military Virtue, Knight (Medalia "Virtutea Militară")
General Information
Country: Romania
Award Name: Military Virtue Medal (Medalia "Virtutea Militară")
Material: Silvered bronze with blue and white enamel
Dimensions: 73.64 mm (including wreath suspension) x 42 mm
Condition: Chipped enamel (visible in photos), new ribbon
Design Elements: Blue Maltese cross, laurel wreath, crossed swords, Romanian Coat of Arms
Originally instituted on April 8, 1872, by King Carol I, this award recognized exceptional deeds on the battlefield by non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and enlisted soldiers. It later evolved to include wartime and peacetime versions, distinguishing combat valor from general military service.
Design Features
Obverse & Reverse (Identical Design)
Blue Maltese Cross:
Enameled in blue, representing loyalty and military honor.
Laurel Wreath:
Encircles the cross, symbolizing victory and heroism.
Central Medallion:
Features the inscription "VIRTUTEA MILITARĂ" at the top, signifying Military Virtue.
Three stars positioned at the bottom of the inscription.
The Coat of Arms of Romania in the center, reinforcing national identity.
Crossed Swords:
Positioned behind the cross, visible through gaps in the laurel wreath.
Symbolize military courage and combat distinction.
Suspension & Ribbon:
New ribbon attached, replacing the original.
Historical and Collectible Significance
Pre-WWII & Royal Era Heritage:
Issued before Romania’s transition to communism (1947).
Tied to the monarchy’s recognition of military service.
Awarded Exclusively to NCOs & Soldiers:
After 1916, the award was no longer given to officers, making it a rare enlisted service medal.
Condition & Rarity:
Chipped enamel affects aesthetics but does not significantly reduce historical value.
New ribbon maintains authenticity, but an original ribbon would enhance its collectible value.
The Order of Military Virtue, Knight Class, is a rare and historically significant Romanian military decoration. Despite chipped enamel, the medal retains its original design elements, and the new ribbon ensures it remains presentable for collectors or display.