The Imperial Service Medal (ISM) was instituted in 1902 to honour long and faithful service by civil servants in the United Kingdom and across the British Empire. Presented upon retirement, the George VI version was awarded to individuals in non-managerial or manual grades who completed at least 25 years of meritorious service. The glittering silver disc symbolises the Crown’s gratitude for dedicated service during a time of global change and challenge.
Awarded to retiring civil servants in support or industrial roles—such as dockyard workers, postal staff (prior to 1969) and other junior grades—who completed 25 years of meritorious, pensionable service. For service in India before independence, the threshold was reduced to 20½ years; in unhealthy climates, it was lowered to 16 years. The award is granted by departmental recommendation and announced in the London Gazette.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
From 1920 onward, the ISM took the form of a circular silver medal, approximately 32 mm in diameter. The obverse features the effigy of King George VI with the inscription GEORGIVS VI D : G : BR: OMN: REX ET INDIAE IMP:. The reverse depicts a naked male figure at rest from his labours, above the legend FOR FAITHFUL SERVICE. The recipient’s name is impressed on the rim.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
The medal hangs from a ribbon consisting of three equal vertical stripes—crimson, dark blue, crimson—symbolising loyalty and the Crown’s enduring support.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
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