The medal was established at the end of the First Balkan War against the Ottoman Empire, by Law 4200 of 30 April 1913,[1][2] but not specified until the Royal Decree of 17 February 1914.

A circular inscription runs along the rim, spelling out ΣΥΝ ΘΕΩι ΥΠΕΡ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΚΑΙ ΠΑΤΡΙΔΟΣ 1912–1913 ('With God for King and Fatherland, 1912–1913), in Byzantine-style lettering.

[3][4] The reverse features a laurel wreath, and in the centre the names of the regions conquered by Greece during the war, also in Byzantine-style lettering: Macedonia, Epirus, and Archipelago.

[4] A version for non-military personnel, who rendered services to the Greek military, was also instituted, with blue and white reversed.

[4] In addition, fourteen battle clasps were authorized for the medal for specific battles and operations:[4] Two additional clasps were instituted, for those wounded in action, featuring two crossed swords, and for those killed in action, featuring a Greek cross.