History

This Medal was founded to recognize the exceptional efforts of Italian men and women who had worked tirelessly to care for the sick, wounded, and suffering, and who had furthered public health and hygiene.

The bronze grade was added to the Medal on May 5, 1889.

The engraved name of the recipient may be featured on the reverse alongside the inscription.

The Type I Medals were awarded during the reign of King Victor Emmanuel II. There are two main versions with different reverse inscriptions.

The first version may have the engraver mark "A.M.INC" and features a reverse inscription in Italian reading "AI BENEMERITI DELLA SALUTE PUBBLICA."

The second version may have the engraver mark "S.J." and features a reverse inscription in Latin reading "SALUTIS PUBLICAE BENEMERENTIBUS."