The medal was established under the statutes of the Imperial Service Order, on 8 August 1902, by King Edward VII,[1] with the first awards appearing in the London Gazette in May 1903.

[3] It is presented upon retirement to selected civil servants, including those belonging to the lowest support and clerical branches,[4][5] who complete at least 25 years' meritorious service.

It is primarily an award to manual and industrial grades, including workers in H M Dockyards and, prior to 1969 when it moved from central government control, the Post Office.

[6] When originally created the Imperial Service Medal was a seven-pointed star, or a laurel wreath for women, in the same pattern as the Imperial Service Order, but with the star or laurel in bronze.

[9] To date, here have been six versions:[10] The reverse bears the image of a naked man resting from his labours[10] with the inscription "For Faithful Service".