The regulation for the issue of this medal is modified by the Royal Decree 1040/2003, 1 August (BOD.

On the obverse, surrounded by a silver edge, is a rising sun behind the sea and a matron stands, representing Spain, offering, with the right hand, a laurel wreath and holding a sword with the left.

At the top of the oval are the words: "Al mérito distinguido".

The ribbon is 30 millimetres (1.2 in) wide and divided in three parts: the central with the national colours (red and yellow) and at the sides blue.

Each medal has a clasp attached to the ribbon with the legend of the action done in black.