History

This Medal was based upon the Austro-Hungarian Military Merit Medal “Signum Laudis.”

The Hungarian Signum Laudis decoration was founded by Miklos Horthy to reward Hungarian citizens and military personnel for rendering meritorious civilian and military services.

The Hungarian decorations feature the surmounting Hungarian Holy Crown, and the image of the two-armed cross of St. Stephen on the obverse medallion.

This decoration was discontinued in 1945.

The Gold Medal was awarded from 1922-1929, but it was replaced by the Large Gold Medal grade in 1930.

The Gold Medal is worn on a green ribbon for civil awards, and on a green ribbon with white and red stripes along the sides for military awards.

The ribbon may be decorated with clasps indicating the recipient has been awarded the medal multiple times. One clasp indicates the 2nd award, and two clasps indicates the 3rd award.

The addition of claps may increase the overall price of the medal.