The medallion is in silver, measures 35.4 mm in height incl. eyelet, 30.3 mm in width; weighs 16.6 g without the ribbon and connecting link. The obverse shows bas-relief of Nicholas II and is inscribed "By the Grace of God, Emperor and Autocrat of All Russia". This is the second, 1904 State Mint version of the medal featuring the less conventional spelling of the Russian word "Saving" ("СПАСАНIЕ" as opposed to "СПАСЕНIЕ" as on the previous, 1894-1904 version).

Very fine to excellent condition. The obverse is nearly pristine; the details of the bas-relief portrait are exceptionally well-preserved and crisp. The lettering and floral artwork on the reverse is likewise essentially perfect. There are some tiny dings to the rim visible only from the side and a couple of minuscule edge bumps on the reverse at approximately 4 and 7 o'clock position, both of them barely noticeable.

The medal comes on an original period St. Vladimir ribbon measuring 22 mm wide and folded into the traditional pentagon shape, likely as worn by the original recipient; its upper ends are secured with thread. The ribbon is perfectly preserved: immaculately clean, sound and unfaded. The silver connecting link appears to be of the period as well and may be original to the medal.