Original German WWII West Wall Medal (Deutsches Schutzwall-Ehrenzeichen)
This is an original German WWII West Wall Medal, officially known as the Deutsches Schutzwall-Ehrenzeichen (“German Defence Wall Honor Award”). The medal was instituted on August 2, 1939, by Adolf Hitler and awarded to military personnel, members of the Reichsarbeitsdienst (RAD), and civilians who participated in the planning, construction, or defense of the fortifications along Germany’s western frontier—known as the “Westwall” or “Siegfried Line.”
The obverse depicts a German national eagle clutching a wreathed swastika above a crossed spade and sword, symbolizing both labor and military defense. The reverse is inscribed “Für Arbeit zum Schutze Deutschlands” (“For Work in the Defense of Germany”), all surrounded by an oak-leaf wreath.
This example is die-struck from bronze-washed zinc and shows a pleasing dark patina with light corrosion and very minor wear from age. It comes complete with its original orange ribbon with white side stripes. The ribbon retains vibrant, clean colors.
A fine, well-preserved example of the early-war West Wall Medal, representing one of the first decorations awarded in the lead-up to WWII.
