Miniature circular silver medal on trophy of arms suspension and ring with silver hallmark to the reverse; the face with the face with the lesser arms of Portugal within a ring inscribed SERVIÇOS DISTINTOS (Distinguished Service) all within a laurel border; the reverse plain; diameter 14.22mm (0.56 inch); on original ribbon. The Medal was instituted on 2 October 1863 in two classes as the Medalha de Bons Serviços (Good Service Medal) to reward military officers for extraordinary military service and outstanding acts. A third class for non-commissioned officers and other ranks was added on 11 September 1919. The name of the Medal was changed to the , the regulations were modified to add a (copper) in order to recognise soldiers. The name of the medal was changed to the Medalha de Serviços Distintos (Distinghished Service Medal) on 28 May 1946.
|