History

Established by King Christian VII, this medal has no official statutes, and is therefore awarded at the monarch's discretion. In previous years, this medal has commonly been awarded to recognize devoted, and prominent service to Denmark.

The gold medal associated with this award is normally conferred upon high ranking Officers, and the silver medal is normally conferred upon individuals who have participated in a public or office duty, for a notable period of time, as well as public servants.

The rim of the medal is engraved with the recipient's name.

The medal may have been conferred upon women, in which case, the medal would be awarded on a bow.

Although it is rare, the gold medal can be awarded with a crown surmounting the medal. Since 1863, the gold medal with crown has only been awarded 10 times.

The medals manufactured during the reign of Frederik IX may be awarded with clasps that read, "GRONLAND", "NORDOSTGRONLANDS SLAEDEPATRULJE 1941-45", "PEARYLAND 1947-50", "NORD 1952-53", or "GALATHEA-EKSPEDITIONEN". The addition of clasps may affect the price of the medal.

Frederik IX was King of Denmark from 1947 to 1972.