Obverse: In the center of a bronze medallion 1-1/4 inches in diameter, a polar bear is shown in profile with its head to the left, walking on a sheet of ice represented by a straight line. Below the line are two undulating lines, depicting water. Above the bear and following the contour of the upper quarter of the medal, the words ARCTIC SERVICE. An eight-pointed star is above the bears back and beneath the inscription.
Reverse: On the reverse of the medal, the Seal of the United States Coast Guard under whose authority the medal is awarded is displayed.