Investiture takes place twice a year – on 2 June, the anniversary of the
foundation of the Republic, and on 27 December, the anniversary of the promulgation of the
Italian Constitution. However, those awards on Presidential , related to termination of service or granted to foreigners, may be made at any time. The badge, modified in 2001, bears the inscription encircling the
national coat of arms on the obverse and the
Latin (for the union of the country) and (for the liberty of the citizens) encircling the head of
Italia turrita on the reverse. The six degrees with corresponding ribbons are as follows (with numbers to 2 June 2020): The order is bestowed by decree of the
President of the Italian Republic, as head of the orders of knighthood, on the recommendation of the
President of the Council of Ministers. Except in exceptional circumstances, no one can be awarded for the first time a rank higher than Knight. The minimum age requirement is normally 35. The Knight Grand Cross with Collar is awarded only to
heads of state. == Recipients ==