History

This Medal is conferred upon Royal Court Officials who had rendered loyal long service, and to Swedish and foreign citizens who have distinguished themselves with extraordinary valour.

In 1974, the Swedish Parliament passed a law that states Swedish citizens no longer had permission to be conferred Swedish Orders. Therefore, following 1974, HM The King's Medal has been the most distinguished award a Swedish citizen can be conferred.

This Medal was previously referred to as the “Court Medal”.

This Medal is not conferred in grades but rather by size and suspension, following an 18th century scale called “Berch’s Scale”. The highest distinction, or grade an individual can receive is the 12th Size Gold Medal On Chain With Diamonds; other “grades” that are associated with this medal vary in composition, suspension and medal size.

The 12th size medals are suspended from a chain or ribbon and worn around the neck.

The 8th size medals are suspended by a ribbon and worn on the left breast.

The obverse design of the medal consists of the portrait of the reigning monarch, inscribed with his name and title in Swedish around his head.

The medal is surmounted with a royal crown.