On the obverse side of the medal is the effigy of the republic, surrounded by a circle of blue enamel, on which is written the words "Naval Merit".[3] On the reverse side, the word "Brasil" is inscribed in the same blue circle.[3] The medal is composed with a red grosgrain ribbon, or chamalotada, with a light blue stripe in the center.
Grades
The five grades are Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer, and Chevalier[dubious – discuss].