History

This Medal was founded by King Victor Emmanuel II, and it was awarded to Italian citizens and foreigners in recognition of meritorious and brave actions rendered in an attempt to prevent the loss of life or property of another individual, and that put their own lives in peril.

There were originally two grades, gold and silver, but the Medal was expanded to in 1888 with the addition of a Bronze grade.

There are three main variants of the medal suspension.

The medals featuring a wide suspension were awarded from 1851-1888.

The medals featuring a cube-shaped suspension were awarded from 1888-1943.

The medals featuring a peg-shaped suspension were awarded from 1900-1943.

The reverse may be engraved with the name, date, and region of the recipient.