The medal's obverse bears Aesculap, the ancient Greek god of healing, facing left; above, the serpent, traditional symbol of his power; below, Chiron, the centaur who taught him the art of healing; decorative rosettas around.
The reverse bears a caduceus, embellished with plants found in the Albany area; below, Lamp of Enlightenment from the College's seal. Around top, ALBANY MEDICAL COLLEGE; around bottom, SESQUICENTENARY - (rosetta) MCMLXXXVIII (rosetta); signed over handle of lamp, (MS monogram)
The circular medallion measures 88.2mm in diameter and was struck in bronze by the Roger Williams Mint of Attleboro, Massachusetts. No mintage is reported.