It was created to encourage non-commissioned officers and other ranks with at least 24 years of service, but could not receive the Order of Saint Louis or the Institution of Military Merit, to reenlist in the army or navy.

The award came with exemptions from personal tax (Taille), Corvée work and soldiers' lodging.

The Médaillon Des Deux Épées consisted of two crossed swords tied together with a ribbon and surrounded by a laurel wreath on a red background.

Later, the medal was made of metal, suspended from a red ribbon and worn in the same manner as the Royal and Military Order of Saint Louis.

Although military honors were abolished in 1792, the Médaillon Des Deux Épées continued to be awarded, but only to officers.