The ‘Eerepenning voor Menschlievend Hulpbetoon’ was instituted in 1822 by King Willem I. The medal is mainly awarded to people who save others. Initially, these were mainly rescues at sea.
Since the emergence of rail and road transport, the award has also been awarded for rescues in the event of accidents involving trains, trams and cars. The medal is also awarded for heroic deeds during robberies or assaults.