*German, WW2, Original West Wall Medal*
The German West Wall Medal, an oval bronze decoration, featured a design on the obverse with a bunker, crossed sword and spade, and an eagle clutching a swastika. The reverse bore the inscription “FÜR ARBEIT ZUM SCHUTZE DEUTSCHLANDS” (“For Work to Protect Germany”) in capital letters. It was suspended from a brown and white ribbon and worn on the left side of the chest.
Instituted on August 2, 1939, the medal was initially awarded to individuals involved in designing and constructing the fortifications along Germany’s western borders, known as the Westwall or Siegfried Line, between June 15, 1938, and March 31, 1939. On November 13, 1939, eligibility expanded to include Wehrmacht personnel who served on the Westwall for at least ten weeks. By January 31, 1941, when distribution ceased, 622,064 medals had been awarded.
In 1944, following the Allied invasion, the medal was reintroduced to recognize those who renovated and reinforced the fortifications. This later version, commonly referred to as the “Defence Wall Honour Award,” was awarded to over 800,000 recipients by the war’s end.
Approximate Measurements: 4.2cm x 3.4cm
*Condition*
No ribbon, ring and eyelet squashed a misshaped a bit as well. Worn condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ_2817189598
