WWII German War Merit Medal

Original WWII-era German War Merit Medal, instituted on 19 August 1939 and awarded for civilian and military service in support of the war effort not involving direct combat.  

The obverse features a broad eight-pointed star with a central swastika within a circular wreath, symbolizing service to the German state. 

The reverse is stamped “Fur Kriegsverdienst 1939” (“For War Merit 1939”). 

This medal was commonly awarded to factory workers, civil defense personel, and military support staff who contributed to Germany’s wartime production and logistics. 

The War Merit Medal was awarded in large numbers but remains a recognizable symbol of Germany’s wartime civilian and auxiliary labor system.