The Aceh Medal (Dutch: Atjeh-medaille) was founded by King William III of the Netherlands on May 12, 1874, in a royal decree.

This provision in the Royal Decree of April 24, 1875 is contrary to the Dutch rule that no more than one medal may be awarded for a single event.

The reverse bears the inscription ATJEH 1873 EN 1874 surrounded by a wreath of laurel and oak leaves.

Originally to be spelt ATCHIN, it was changed to the current spelling by a Royal Decree dated August 28, 1874.

A Royal Decree dated April 24, 1875 changed the color to "Nassau blue".