The medal was impressed in small capitals with the recipient's name on the rim, and was awarded with a case of issue, miniature medal for wear, and an illuminated certificate.

The ribbon consisted of five equal stripes, green, white, gold, white, green, identical to the Independence Decoration.

[1] Most recipients were political supporters or allies of the Rhodesian Front government of Ian Smith; the decoration was awarded to over 20 traditional leaders as a reward for their tacit support of the government.

Recipients included the ZUPO leader Jeremiah Chirau, and the Rhodesian High Commissioner in London, Andrew Skeen.

The last recipient of the Independence Commemorative Decoration was the sanctions-buster Jack Malloch, owner of air transport company Affretair, in 1978.