History

The Medal of Merit for Education was established by King Carol I in 1898. It was originally awarded to primary school teachers in recognition of meritorious service, but it was later extended to secondary school teachers in 1900 and to teachers at technical schools in 1906. In 1907 it was expanded again to include three grades that could be awarded to any Romanian citizen in recognition of contributions to national education. It was replaced by the Order of Cultural Merit in 1931.

There are four versions of the I Class Medal that differ in inscription. The first has a reverse inscription that translates to "Reward for Merit in Primary Education," the second has a reverse inscription that translates to "Reward for Merit in Secondary Education," the third has a reverse inscription that translates to "Reward for Merit in Vocational Education," and the fourth has a reverse inscription that translates to "Reward for Merit in Education." All four versions have an obverse inscription that translates to "Carol I, King of Romania."

There may be additional versions of the I Class Medal that differ in size or composition.