Bronze gilt, enamels, 40.7 mm in height (incl. eyelet), 39.3 mm in width, weighs 17.0 g. French made by Arthus Bertrand & Co., maker marked on the jump ring.

In very fine to excellent condition. There is a tiny flake to the blue enamel on the obverse at 11 o'clock, not too obvious and noticeable mostly when tilting the badge to reflect a bright light. The reverse shows a minuscule indentation to the lower edge of the 9 o'clock arm of the cross, equally hard to notice. The ribbon is missing the regulation two-prong vertical pin attachment - something that could turn into a small but satisfying DIY project, if desired.

The Order of Merit was instituted on June 20, 1959, to be awarded to Central African citizens, and in rare cases foreigners, for exceptional merit in economic, humanitarian, and social spheres. The number of appointed Knights is capped at 150, making this a scarce decoration.