The awards were established by museum director Rodney Wilson in 1998, with the first medal ceremony being held on 12 November 1999.

[2] Prior to the establishment of the medals, former staff and volunteers were typically celebrated by being awarded an honorary life membership by the Auckland Institute and Museum.

[2] Since 2022, the medals have been cast in bronze, featuring a stylised basket of knowledge design created by artist Marté Szirmay.

[3][4] Prior to this, the medals had a smooth circular design which incorporated a green and black circle surrounded by a grey band.

[3] In 2006, Sir Hugh Kāwharu was recognised as both a Fellow and Companion of the Auckland War Memorial Museum.