Kossuth Order of Merit

The Kossuth Order of Merit (Kossuth-érdemrend) was a high-ranking Hungarian state decoration, awarded relatively infrequently in the years following the Communist takeover.

Its establishment was provided for by Act XVII of 1948. “§ 1 (1) In the spirit of the ideals of freedom of 1848, to reward outstanding merit in the service of cooperation among peoples and world peace, and in the fields of science and art, the Kossuth Order of Merit is hereby established; it may be awarded to Hungarian and foreign citizens,” the Act stated.

The Kossuth Order of Merit was conferred by the President of the Republic on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. It had three grades (classes). The first grade was originally worn on a shoulder sash, and the second around the neck. Nineteen were awarded in the first grade, 24 in the second, and 48 in the third.

Act V of 1953, concerning the establishment of a new series of decorations, listed it among the decorations that could continue to be worn.