Octagonal gold coloured medallion in black box. Front of medal carries a relief image of Sydney Harbour, along with seven small shield designs in which different sports are depicted. Raised text on front of medal reads, "BRITISH / EMPIRE / GAMES / of 1938 / SYDNEY / AUSTRALIA". Reverse of medal carries a decorative floral design in wreath formation. Circular feature at base of floral design on reverse contains a relief image of Australia.