Description
German World War II West Wall Medal (Deutsches Schutzwall-Ehrenzeichen)
This is an authentic World War II German West Wall Medal (Deutsches Schutzwall-Ehrenzeichen), instituted on August 2, 1939, by Adolf Hitler. The medal was awarded to members of the Wehrmacht, labor services, and civilians who participated in the construction and fortification of Germany’s defensive positions along the Siegfried Line (Westwall).
The medal’s design features a soldier holding a rifle in front of a stylized bunker and the German West Wall fortifications, symbolizing defensive readiness. The reverse bears the inscription “Für Arbeit zum Schutze Deutschlands” (“For Work in the Defense of Germany”) with oak leaf detailing.
Originally issued as a bronze-finished medal, the award recognized both frontline service and construction efforts, emphasizing the combination of military and labor contributions to national defense. Recipients could wear it on the left breast pocket of the uniform.
A historically significant Third Reich award, the West Wall Medal is highly collectible for those specializing in German WWII campaign and service decorations.
