There were two versions of the medal one in bronze and a variant in steel.

The bronze medal was a reward for service by German troops and civilians during the Boxer Rebellion.

The steel medal was awarded to people contributing to the war effort at home and the sailors of the merchant fleet transporting the soldiers to China.

[1] The initial design came from Wilhelm II himself and was executed by professor Walter Schott.

The medals were produced by the company Mayer & Wilhelm in Stuttgart.