OBVERSE
The obverse of the medal features a symbolic Bird of Paradise, delicately modelled with all its fine detail frosted on a mirror polished background. Surrounding the design are the words: Hong Kong Service Medal with the dates 1841 – 1997, denoting the period Hong Kong was 'The Crown Colony of Hong Kong'.
THE REVERSE
The reverse of the medal has a brilliant polished background and carries the central feature of Hong Kong written in Cantonese. The golden appearance of the medal giving prestige and a most appropriate commemorative significance to service in the ' Fragrant Harbour'.
THE RIBBON
The blue of the Ribbon represents the waters, channels and the seas surrounding Hong Kong and the New Territories with the centre Golden Yellow stripe representing the rich and strategic 'Jewel in the Crown'. The exclusively designed woven medal ribbon is fitted to a uniquely designed medal suspender, which features two powerful inter-twined dragons 'guarding the Colony'. This medal is supplied on a concealed single pin, ready to wear.