Royal Medal

A medal awarded by the Royal Society for distinguished scientific achievement. Established by George IV in 1825, it was originally intended to recognise important discoveries or contributions to natural knowledge made within the preceding five years. Two medals were normally awarded annually, although the number and rules varied over time. In the nineteenth century it became one of the Royal Society’s principal scientific honours, awarded to such figures as Michael Faraday, Charles Darwin, Lord Kelvin, and Joseph Dalton Hooker. It continues to be awarded.