History

The Medal was founded by Charles Albert, King of Sardinia, to recognize Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers for a faithful career in the military that spanned fifty years.

This Medal was also awarded to Italian Customs and Police Force Officers.

These Medals were initially composed of pure gold. In 1918, a shortage of materials, caused by World War I, resulted in the suspension of the Medal.

On March 25, 1920, a Decree was passed that re-instated the Medals, and dictated that they be made from the Austrian bronze cannons taken from enemy forces during the war.

The Medal continues to be awarded during the Italian Republic

The Medal was designed by Guiseppe Ferraris. It was originally minted at the Torino Mint, but following the unification of Italy in 1861 the Medal was minted in Rome.

The reverse inscription may also include the engraved name of the recipient.

The Large Medal was awarded to high ranking Officers.