Morocco - The Star of Merit, Third Class (Étoile du Mérite du Maroc, Troisième Classe)
General Information
Country: Morocco
Award Name: The Star of Merit (Étoile du Mérite du Maroc)
Class: Third Class (Troisième Classe)
Institution Date: 1939, by King Muhammad V
Awarded For: Civil services and public contributions
Number of Classes:
First Class – Silver gilt
Second Class – Silver
Third Class – Bronze (This Medal)
Material: Bronze
Dimensions: 41.54 mm x 41.26 mm
Manufacturer: Made in France, with maker's name inscribed on the bottom of the reverse
Design Features
Overall Construction:
Five-pointed star design, symbolic of Moroccan heritage and national identity.
Crafted in bronze, denoting Third Class status.
Manufactured in France, as seen from the maker’s mark on the reverse.
Historical and Collectible Significance
Founded by King Muhammad V:
Created as a civilian award in 1939 to recognize distinguished public service.
Symbolized royal appreciation for contributions to the Moroccan state.
Awarded in Three Classes:
First Class (Silver Gilt): Given for high-ranking achievements.
Second Class (Silver): Reserved for significant civil contributions.
Third Class (Bronze): Recognized general public service or entry-level merit awards.
French-Made & Pre-Independence Significance:
The French manufacture suggests production before Morocco’s independence in 1956.
Collectors value French-made Moroccan decorations due to their high-quality craftsmanship.
The Star of Merit, Third Class (1939) is a historic Moroccan civil award, crafted in bronze and manufactured in France. It remains a symbol of public service and royal recognition under King Muhammad V. Given its pre-independence origin and limited availability, it is a valuable addition to collections of Moroccan and North African orders.