It is considered as Transkei's approximate equivalent of South Africa's Good Service Medal, Bronze.

[1][7][8] It is possible that the bronze versions are proof specimens which were never officially accepted or presented, but it is equally possible that an as yet undiscovered third silver-gilt medal also exists.

[9] Since the Faithful Service Medal was authorised for wear by one of the statutory forces which came to be part of the South African National Defence Force on 27 April 1994, it was accorded a position in the official South African order of precedence on that date.

[9][10] The reverse is inscribed "YENKONZO ETHEMBEKILEYO — • — FOR FAITHFUL SERVICE" in four lines, the inscription surrounded by a laurel wreath.

Conferment of the Faithful Service Medal was discontinued when the Republic of Transkei ceased to exist on 27 April 1994.