[1][2][3] The Union of South Africa Commemoration Medal was instituted by King George V in terms of Royal Warrant of 3 October 1910, published in Government Gazette no.

The medal was struck to commemorate the opening of the first Parliament of the Union of South Africa by the Duke of Connaught and it was awarded to military and civilian leaders who took part in the ceremonies to establish the Union of South Africa from the unification of the former Colonies of the Cape of Good Hope, Natal, Transvaal and the Orange River Colony.

[2][4] The medal was awarded to members of the military and naval forces as well as certain civilian leaders who took a prominent part in the proceedings, and only on the recommendation of the Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A roll was to be kept and was to be closed six months after the date of the warrant, after which no award could be made except with Royal Approval in very special circumstances.

[1][2][3] The obverse bears the effigy of King George V, facing left and surrounded by the legend: "GEORGIVS V BRITT:OMN:REX ET IND:IMP:".