Ten-pointed gilt star with gilt and green enamel stylised laurel wreath imposed on the arms, on suspension of two horns with a black enamel circle; the face with the arms alternately pale green and orange enamel, a circular central gilt-edged black enamel medallion bearing a radiant traditional shield, a gilt ribbon below inscribed ‘MÉRITE CULTUREL’ in black letters; the reverse plain gilt with a circular central raised medallion inscribed with the Ivorian motto ‘UNION DISCIPLINE TRAVAIL’ (Unity Discipline Work) on a stippled ground within a ring inscribed ‘REPUBLIQUE DE COTE D’IVOIRE’, maker’s mark ‘F.S’ at the base; on a correct paper representation of the ribbon. The Order was instituted in 1979 to be awarded for outstanding cultural merit and for contributions to the development of Ivorian culture, especially in the field of international relations. After a long period of peace and prosperity, a coup in 1999, a disputed election in 2000 and an army mutiny in 2002 have destabilised the country. It is not known if or when future awards of the Order will be made.
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