This 1-1/4 inch die-struck medal is bordered with a method of scalloping that is identical to diamond cut engraving. It's available only in gold and can be engraved or imprinted only on the back face. The front face is decorated with a design illustrating an open book behind three items; a lit torch, a 'lamp of learning' to the right, and a quill and inkwell to the left. The words 'Medal of Special Recognition' are imprinted around the inner perimeter of the medal.