History

The Medal for Charitable Assistance was established by Royal Decree in 1822. It is awarded in recognition of noble, brave, and philanthropic actions.

The Medal is classified into three types. Type I, 1822-1897 includes non-wearable medals awarded in gold, silver and as of December 1841, bronze. These medals come in various sizes, 35mm, 41mm and 50mm. Type II medals are officially portative due to the decree of May 24, 1897. These medals were worn on an orange ribbon with a red stripe. In 1912, a new model was introduced. This oval medal depicts a statue of Charity and is topped with a surmounting crown. It is also worn on an orange ribbon with a red stripe.

There are multiple versions of the Type I Medal that differ in engraving and inscription. The first version features an obverse inscription that translates to “William, King of the Netherlands, Grand Duke of Luxembourg.”The second version features an obverse inscription that translates to “William II of Nassau, King of Belgium, Grand Duke of Luxembourg,” and the third version features an obverse inscription that translates to “William III, King of the Netherlands, Grand Duke of Luxembourg.” The fourth version features an obverse inscription that translates to “William III, King of the Netherlands, Grand Duke of Luxembourg,” and a reverse inscription that translates to “For Charitable Assistance.” The fifth version features the same obverse and reverse inscriptions as the third version.

The Bronze Medal was added in 1841. There may be additional versions that vary in size.