What is the Order of Merit?
Q: What is the Order of Merit?
A: The Order of Merit is an award given to individuals for notable work in the armed forces, science, art, literature, or for the promotion of culture.
Q: Who set up the Order of Merit?
A: The Order of Merit was set up in 1902 by Edward VII.
Q: Who chooses members for the order?
A: Membership of the order is a personal gift from its Sovereign (the monarch).
Q: Who is the sovereign of the order?
A: The sovereign of the order is currently the reigning monarch of Commonwealth realms.
Q: How many living recipients can be members at any one time?
A: There are a limited number of 24 living recipients at any one time from Commonwealth realms plus a small number honorary members.
Q: What do members receive upon joining?
A: Members receive post-nominal letters OM and a medallion for life upon joining.
Q: Does precedence differ between Commonwealth realms?
A: Yes, precedence amongst other honours differs between Commonwealth realms.
