Obverse. The Coat of Arms of theUnited States, which also forms the central device of the Department of Stateflag, rests upon a stylized globe, emphasizing the worldwide overseas postingof eligible recipients of the Department of State Star Medal. The globe isencircled by a continuous rope, symbolizing unity and continuity, and iscentered upon a five-pointed star, underscoring the award designation. Gold issymbolic of excellence.

Reverse. On the reverse, thedesignation ''Department of State'' encloses a gold rimmed purple star (thesame color as used on the Purple Heart), symbolizing injuries while performingofficial duties.