Orders, decorations, and medals of East Germany

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
State arms of German Democratic Republic.svg

Following the 1949 establishment of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) the new state prohibited the wearing of all pre-1945 German decorations and created a new system of awards inspired in part by those of the USSR.[1][2]

After German reunification in 1990, the wearing of East German decorations was not forbidden with the exception of those considered to be in breach of public order such as decorations of the Ministry for State Security, Border troops, Volkspolizei, , and Free German Youth (FDJ).[3]

Honorary Titles[]

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
Held der DDR.png
GDR Hero of GDR BAR.png
 Hero of the GDR
Held der DDR 		1975-10-28 Awarded for heroic feats in service to the East German state and society.
Held der Arbeit.jpg
GDR Hero of Labor BAR.png
 Hero of Labour
Held der Arbeit 		1950-04-19
Us redribbon rib.png

Meritorious Member of State Security
(Ehrentitel Verdienter Mitarbeiter der Staatssicherheit)

1969-12-16 Awarded for outstanding contributions to the protection of the state from foreign intelligence services

Medaille Verdienter Militaerflieger.jpg
Meritorious Military Pilot of the GDR ribbon.png

Meritorious Military Pilot of the GDR
(Verdienter Militärflieger der DDR)

1974-08-01
GDR Meritorious Policeman BAR.png
(Verdienter Volkspolizist ) 		1966-06-15 The medal was awarded in a single class for special achievements and personal dedication in the protection of the GDR. Also, for exemplary initiative that have contributed to increasing public safety and order.
GDR Meritorious Member of National People's Army BAR.png
(Ehrenzeichen der Deutschen Volkspolizei) 		1976-02-20 The medal was awarded in a single class for outstanding achievements and merit leading to an increase in combat readiness and effectiveness.
GDR Meritorious Member of Border Troops BAR.png
(Verdienter Angehöriger der Grenztruppen) 		1975-11-14 The medal was awarded in a single class for outstanding achievements and merit leading.
GDR Meritorious Member of Civil Defense BAR.png
(Verdienter Angehöriger der Zivilverteidigung) 		1977-10-25 The medal was awarded in a single class for outstanding achievements and special merit over many years of exemplary duty fulfillment of duties in increasing operational readiness.
GDR Honoured Activist.jpg Медаль Заслуженный активист (ГДР) лента.png
(Verdienter Aktivist) 		1953-11-01 The medal was awarded in a single class for outstanding improvements in production, in technology or in occupational safety.
Verdienter Arzt des Volkes Verdienter Arzt des Volkes Interimsspange.jpg Honoured Doctor of the People
(Verdienter Arzt des Volkes) 		1949-03-31 The medal was awarded for significant and outstanding achievements in scientific research, in medical practice, in the organization of health protection, in teaching at universities and in medical colleges and in the training of the medical cadre.

State Prizes[]

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
Nationalpreis der DDR.jpg
 GDR National Prize of GDR BAR.png National Prize of East Germany
Nationalpreis der DDR 		1949 Awarded for scientific, artistic, and other meritorious achievement.
Heinrich Greif Prize
Heinrich-Greif-Preis 		1951 Awarded for contribution to the state cinema and television industry.

Lessing-Preis 		1954 Awarded for outstanding work in the field of the stage and the arts.

Preis für künstlerisches Volksschaffen 		1955 Awarded for outstanding new creations or artistic interpretations.
Heinrich Heine Prize
Heinrich-Heine-Preis 		1956 Awarded for outstanding lyrical works and works of literary journalism.

Carl-Blechen-Preis 		1956 Awarded for the Arts, Literature and Artistic Folk Creations.
Johannes R. Becher Medal
Johannes-R.-Becher-Medaille 		1961 Awarded for the development of national socialist culture.
Art Prize of the German Democratic Republic
Kunstpreis der DDR 		1959 Awarded for outstanding creative and interpretive achievements in visual arts, applied arts, cinema, television, radio and entertainment.

Rudolf-Virchow-Preis 		1960 Awarded for special achievements in the field of medical literature, medical technology and medical production.
GutsMuths-Medaille.jpg
GutsMuths-Preis 		1961 Awarded for scientific achievements in the field of sports science and sports medicine.
Friedrich-Engels-Preis, Stufe Gold.jpg

GDR Engels Prize bar-G.png GDR Engels-Prize bar S.png GDR Engels Prize bar-G.png


Friedrich-Engels-Preis 		1970 Awarded in 3 classes for outstanding scientific and organizational achievements to strengthen national defense.

Theodor-Körner-Preis 		1970 Awarded for outstanding achievements in the creation or interpretation of works of art that contribute to strengthening the defense forces of the GDR.

Architekturpreis des DDR 		1976 Awarded for achievements in the field of architecture.
Gutes Design klein vorne.png
Designpreis der DDR 		1978 Awarded for significant contribution in increasing economic productivity.

Jacob-und-Wilhelm-Grimm-Preis 		1978 Awarded for the promotion of the German language and German studies abroad.

State Orders[]

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
GDR Karl-Marx-order rib.gif
 GDR Marks-order bar.png Order of Karl Marx
Karl Marx Orden 		1953-05-05 Awarded for exceptional merit in relation to ideology, culture, economy, and other designations. Additionally, citizens of other countries could also be awarded the order.
GDR Patriotic Order of Merit all 3 classes.jpg

Ehrenspange.png Złoty Order Za Zasługi dla Narodu i Ojczyzny.png Ribbon bars of the Fatherland's Orde of Merit.png Ribbon bars of the Fatherland's Orde of Merit Brons.png

Patriotic Order of Merit
Vaterländischer Verdienstorden 		1954-05-21 Awarded for special services to the state and to society
GDR Banner of Labour 3 classes.jpg

GDR Order of Banner of Labor 1Class BAR.png GDR Order of Banner of Labor 2Class BAR.png GDR Order of Banner of Labor 3Class BAR.png

Banner of Labour
Banner der Arbeit 		1954-08-04 Awarded for outstanding achievements over many years which stabilised and strengthened the country, and in particular for high results in work in the national economy.
De grote gouden ster van de Orde van de Volkerenvriendschap 2.png
GDR Star of Friendship of Nations - Grand Star (formal ribbon) BAR.png
GDR Star of Friendship of Nations - Gold BAR.png
GDR Star of Friendship of Nations - Silver BAR.png
 Star of People's Friendship
Stern der Völkerfreundschaft 		1959-08-20 Awarded for exceptional merit in contributing to the "understanding and friendship between nations and preservation of peace".
Bartel0016gsb.jpg
GDR Blucher Order for Gallantry - Gold BAR.png
GDR Blucher Order for Gallantry - Silver BAR.png
GDR Blucher Order for Gallantry - Bronze BAR.png
 Blücher Order
Blücher Orden 		1965-10-13 Awarded for valour in time of war (never awarded).
Bartel0012c2.jpg
GDR Scharnhorst-Order bar.png
 Scharnhorst Order
Scharnhorst-Orden 		1966-02-17 Awarded for major contributions to the improvement principles of ideology of the GDR
GDR Combat Order of Merit for the People and Fatherland.jpg

GDR Combat-Order for Merit for the Nation and Fatherland - Bronze BAR.png
GDR Combat-Order for Merit for the Nation and Fatherland - Silver BAR.png
GDR Combat-Order for Merit for the Nation and Fatherland - Gold BAR.png
Kampforden für Verdienste um Volk und Vaterland 		1966-02-17 The medal was awarded in three classes:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold

State Medals[]

Military and para-military decorations[]

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
GDR Decoration of the German Peoples Police.jpg GDR Decoration of German Police BAR.png
(Ehrenzeichen der Deutschen Volkspolizei) 		1949-06-01 The medal was awarded in a single class for outstanding achievements, for personal bravery and selfless dedication.
GDR Decoration of Honour for Excellent Performance in Fire Protection.jpg GDR Decoration of honor for excellent performance in fire protection ribbon.png
(Ehrenzeichen für hervorragende Leistungen im Brandschutz) 		1983-02-10 The medal was awarded in a single class for exemplary performances in ensuring fire protection, for great bravery in fighting fires in the protection of the lives of citizens of the GDR, in preventing major damage, for significant results in the development of fire protection in the GDR, for international cooperation of bodies of fire protection.
Vorbildlichen-Grenzdienst3.jpg
 GDR Medal for Exemplary Border Service BAR.png Medal for Exemplary Border Service
(Medaille für vorbildlichen Grenzdienst der Grenztruppen der DDR) 		1954-05-28 The medal was awarded in a single class for exemplary performance and personal commitment in securing the state border of the GDR
GDR Medal for Excellence in the Armed Organs of the Interior Ministry.jpg
 Medal for excellence in the armed forces of the Ministry of the Interior ribbon.png
(Medaille für ausgezeichnete Leistungen in den bewaffneten Organen des Ministeriums des Innern

)

1959-06-04 The medal was awarded in a single class for excellent performance of tasks, in particular in the strengthening and consolidation of the GDR.
GDR Medal for excellent performance in the fighting groups of the working class.jpg
 GDR Medal for excellent performance in the fighting groups of the working class ribbon.png
(Medaille für ausgezeichnete Leistungen in den Kampfgruppen der Arbeiterklasse

)

1965-10-06 The medal was awarded in a single class for special merit in the deployment, development and consolidation of combat groups, for excellent performance in leadership and training, for the care and maintenance of equipment and armament.
GDR Medal of Merit in Fire Protection.jpg
 GDR Medal of Merit in Fire Protection ribbon.png
(Medaille für Verdienste im Brandschutz) 		1968-08-24 The medal was awarded in a single class for outstanding achievements as well as personal bravery and selfless dedication in the fulfillment of fire protection duties in the safeguarding of the national economy as well as the life, health and protection of the personal property of the citizens of the GDR.

GDR Medal of Merit of the National People's Army.jpg

GDR Verdienstmedaille NVA 3 BAR.png
GDR Verdienstmedaille NVA 2 BAR.png
GDR Verdienstmedaille NVA 1 BAR.png

 Medal of Merit of the National People's Army
(Verdienstmedaille der Nationalen Volksarmee) 		1956-06-01 The medal was awarded in three classes for outstanding merit and personal readiness in support of increases in combat capabilities and readiness of the National People's Army:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
GDR Medal of Merit of Organs of the Ministry of the Interior.jpg

GDR Organs of Ministry of Interior Medal of Merit - Bronze BAR.png
GDR Organs of Ministry of Interior Medal of Merit - Silver BAR.png
GDR Organs of Ministry of Interior Medal of Merit - Gold BAR.png
(Verdienstmedaille der Organe des Ministeriums des Innern) 		1966-06-15 The medal was awarded in three classes for merit and personal commitment in increasing public order and security; for the protection of the structure of socialism in the GDR and the consolidation of the German People's Police and the Ministry of the Interior:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
Medal of Merit of the Border Troops of the GDR.jpg

Medal of Merit of the Border Troops of the GDR bronze ribbon.png Medal of Merit of the Border Troops of the GDR silver ribbon.png Medal of Merit of the Border Troops of the GDR ribbon.png


(Verdienstmedaille der Grenztruppen der DDR) 		1977-10-25 The medal was awarded in 3 classes for outstanding achievements and personal dedication in maintaining the security of the borders of the GDR. Also for political and military leadership as well as for education and training.
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
GDR Medal of Merit of the Combat Groups of the Working-Class.jpg

GDR Medal of merit for combat groups of the working-class in bronze ribbon.png
GDR Medal of merit for combat groups of the working-class in silver ribbon.png
GDR Medal of merit for combat groups of the working-class in gold ribbon.png


(Verdienstmedaille der Kampfgruppen der Arbeiterklasse) 		1961-09-25 The medal was awarded in three classes for faithful fulfillment of duties and recognition of exemplary achievements in the ranks of the combat groups of the GDR:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
Medal of Merit of the Customs Administration of the GDR.jpg

GDR Medal of Merit of the Customs Administration lvl 1 ribbon.png
GDR Medal of Merit of the Customs Administration lvl 2 ribbon.png
GDR Medal of Merit of the Customs Administration lvl 3 ribbon.png
(Verdienstmedaille der Zollverwaltung der DDR) 		1967-05-12 The medal was awarded in three classes to individuals or collectives of the GDR or other socialist states, for services in fulfilling duties in the customs administration that contributed to strengthening and securing the GDR:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
Medal of Merit of Civil Defense of the GDR.jpg

GDR Medal of Merit of Civil Defense in bronze ribbon.png
GDR Medal of Merit of Civil Defense in silver ribbon.png
GDR Medal of Merit of Civil Defense in gold ribbon.png
(Verdienstmedaille der Zivilverteidigung) 		1970-09-16 The medal was awarded in three classes to members and collectives of the Civil Defense of the GDR, to citizens of the GDR as well as to foreign nationals of socialist brother states, companies and institutions; for special merit in increasing the operational readiness, the education and training, the maintenance of and development of technical equipment of civil defense:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
GDR Brotherhood in Arms Medal.jpg

GDR Brotherhood in Arms Medal - Bronze BAR.png
GDR Brotherhood in Arms Medal - Silver BAR.png
GDR Brotherhood in Arms Medal - Gold BAR.png

Medal Brotherhood in Arms
(Medaille der Waffenbrüderschaft) 		1966-02-17 The medal was awarded in three classes for achievements and merit in the consolidation of the relationships between the fraternal socialist armies and the development of mutual cooperation:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
GDR Medal for loyal service in the barracked People's Police.jpg Meda ribbonl for loyal service in the barracked People's Police GDR.png
(Medaille für treue Dienste in der Kasernierten Volkspolizei) 		1954-04-28 The medal was awarded in a single class for 5 years of honest, conscientious and faithful service in the armed organs of the GDR. It was replaced by the Medal For Faithful Service in the National People’s Army in 1956.
GDR Medal For Faithful Service in the National Peoples Army.jpg

GDR Med-Faithfol-Serv-NPA bar-5y.pdf
GDR Med-Faithfol-Serv-NPA bar-10y.pdf
GDR Med-Faithfol-Serv-NPA bar-15y.pdf
GDR Med-Faithful-Serv-NPA bar-20y.pdf

Medal For Faithful Service in the National People’s Army
(Medaille für treue Dienste in der Nationalen Volksarmee) 		1956-06-01 The medal was awarded in four classes:
  • 5 years service (bronze)
  • 10 years service (silver)
  • 15 years service (gold)
  • 20 years service (gold) with colored flags on the medal and Roman numerals XX on the ribbon
GDR Medal For Faithful Service in the Border Guards of the GDR.jpg

GDR Med-Faithfol-Serv-NPA bar-5y.pdf
GDR Med-Faithfol-Serv-NPA bar-10y.pdf
GDR Med-Faithfol-Serv-NPA bar-15y.pdf
GDR Med-Faithful-Serv-NPA bar-20y.pdf


(Medaille für treue Dienste in den Grenztruppen der DDR) 		1977-10-25 The medal was awarded in four classes:
  • 5 years service (bronze)
  • 10 years service (silver)
  • 15 years service (gold)
  • 20 years service (gold) with colored flags on the medal and Roman numerals XX on the ribbon

GDR Med-Faithfol-Serv-NPA bar-5y.pdf
GDR Med-Faithfol-Serv-NPA bar-10y.pdf
GDR Med-Faithfol-Serv-NPA bar-15y.pdf
GDR Med-Faithful-Serv-NPA bar-20y.pdf


(Medaille für treue Dienste in der Zivilverteidigung der DDR) 		1977-10-25 The medal was awarded to personnel of the Civil Defense in four classes:
  • 5 years service (bronze)
  • 10 years service (silver)
  • 15 years service (gold)
  • 20 years service (gold) with Roman numerals XX on the ribbon
GDR Medals for faithful service in the armed organs of the Ministry of the Interior.jpg

GDR Medal for Long Service in Militarized Organs of Ministry of Interior - 5 Years ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Long Service in Militarized Organs of Ministry of Interior - 10 Years ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Long Service in Militarized Organs of Ministry of Interior - 15 Years ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Long Service in Militarized Organs of Ministry of Interior - 20 Years ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Long Service in Militarized Organs of Ministry of Interior - 25 Years ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Long Service in Militarized Organs of Ministry of Interior - 30 Years ribbon.png


(Medaille für Treue Dienste in den bewaffneten Organen des Ministeriums des Innern) 		1959-01-22 The medal was awarded in six classes:
  • 5 years service (bronze)
  • 10 years service (silver)
  • 15 years service (gold)
  • 20 years service (gold)
  • 25 years service (gold)
  • 30 years service (gold)
Medal for Loyal Service in the Customs Administration of the GDR.jpg

GDR Medal for loyal service in the customs administration 3rd lvl ribbon.png
GDR Medal for loyal service in the customs administration 2nd lvl ribbon.png
GDR Medal for loyal service in the customs administration 1st lvl ribbon.png
GDR Medal for loyal service in the customs administration lvl 4 cl ribbon.png
GDR Medal for loyal service in the customs administration lvl 5 cl ribbon.png
GDR Medal for loyal service in the customs administration lvl 6 cl ribbon.png


(Medaille für treue Dienste in der Zollverwaltung der DDR) 		1967-05-12 The medal was awarded in six classes to all employees of the customs administration upon reaching a fixed, uninterrupted period of honest, conscientious and faithful service:
  • 5 years service (bronze)
  • 10 years service (silver)
  • 15 years service (gold)
  • 20 years service (gold + 1 oak leaf)
  • 25 years service (gold + 2 oak leaves)
  • 30 years service (gold + 3 oak leaves)
GDR Medal for Long Service in Fighting Groups of Working Class.jpg

GDR Medaille treue Dienste Kampfgruppen Arbeiterklasse Bronze ribbon.png
GDR Medaille treue Dienste Kampfgruppen Arbeiterklasse Silber ribbon.png
GDR Medaille treue Dienste Kampfgruppen Arbeiterklasse Gold ribbon.png
GDR Medaille treue Dienste Kampfgruppen Arbeiterklasse Special ribbon.png


(Medaille für Treue Dienste in den Kampfgruppen der Arbeiterklasse) 		1965-10-06 The medal was awarded in four classes:
  • 5 years service (bronze)
  • 10 years service (silver)
  • 15 years service (gold)
  • 20 years service (gold) with gold circular ribbon device (post 1978)
Medal for Faithful Fulfillment of Duties in the Civil Defense of the GDR.jpg

Ribbon for the Medal for loyal fulfillment of duties in the civil defense of the GDR bronze grade.png
Ribbon for the Medal for loyal fulfillment of duties in the civil defense of the GDR silver grade.png
Ribbon for the Medal for loyal fulfillment of duties in the civil defense of the GDR gold grade.png


(Medaille für treue Pflichterfüllung in der Zivilverteidigung der DDR) 		1977-10-25 The medal was awarded in three classes to volunteers:
  • 10 years service (bronze)
  • 20 years service (silver)
  • 30 years service (gold)

Civilian decorations[]

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
GDR Medal of Merit.jpg
GDR Medal of Merit ribbon.png


(Verdienstmedaille der DDR)

1959-06-04 Awarded for distinction through special achievements and faithful fulfillment of duties in the construction of socialism.
Hans-Beimler Medal-Ribbon.gif

Hans Beimler Medal
(Hans Beimler Medaille)

1956-05-17 Awarded for fighting in the Spanish Civil War on the side of the Republicans.
GDR Medal for Fighters Against Fascism.jpg
GDR Medal for Fighters against Fascism BAR.png

Medal for Fighters Against Fascism
(Medaille für Kämpfer gegen den Faschismus)

1958-02-22 Awarded for involvement in the resistance against the Nazi regime 1933–45.
DDR Lebensrettungsmedaille ribbon.png


(Lebensrettungsmedaille der DDR)

1954-05-28 Awarded for the salvation of people while in mortal danger to the rescuer.
GDR Medal for Selfless Action in the Fight Against Disasters ribbon.png


(Medaille für die Bekämpfung der Hochwasserkatastrophe im Juli 1954)

1954-08-05 Awarded for selfless commitment, exemplary work and self-sacrifice in combating the floods and in the subsequent repairs of damages in Saxony, the Ore Mountains and the Elster Mountains in July 1954.
GDR Medal for Selfless Action in the Fight Against Disasters.jpg
GDR Medal for Selfless Action in the Fight Against Disasters ribbon.png


(Medaille für selbstlosen Einsatz bei der Bekämpfung von Katastrophen)

1957-08-15 Awarded for selfless dedication, exemplary assistance and personal sacrifice, as well as other outstanding services in preventing or combating disasters and eliminating their aftermath.
Medal for excellent performance in the water management of the GDR.jpg
Medal for excellent performance in the water management of the GDR ribbon.png


(Medaille für hervorragende Leistungen in der Wasserwirtschaft der DDR)

1975-01-30 Awarded for excellent performance in the socialist competition as well as the fulfillment of, or zeal in the tasks set by the water management of the GDR, in connection with many years of activity in this field.
GDR Commemorative medal 20th anniversary of land reform.jpg
GDR Commemorative medal 20th anniversary of land reform ribbon.png


(Erinnerungsmedaille 20. Jahrestag der Bodenreform – demokratische Bodenreform)

1965-07-27 Awarded for a special contribution to the implementation of land reform, the founding of agricultural cooperatives or to the socialist transformation of agriculture.
Medal of Honor for the 40th anniversary of the GDR.jpg
GDR Medal of Honour for the 40th anniversary of the GDR ribbon.png


(Ehrenmedaille zum 40. Jahrestag der GDR)

1988-10-14 Awarded for outstanding achievements in the emergence and overall strengthening of the GDR and for the active participation in the design of the socialist society.
GDR Hufeland Medal.jpg

GDR Hufeland medal in bronze ribbon.png
GDR Hufeland medal in silver ribbon.png
GDR Hufeland medal in gold ribbon.png
(Hufeland-Medaille) 		1958-09-13 The medal was awarded in three classes for special merit, exemplary initiative in socialist competition and the fulfillment of prescribed tasks in health and social services of the GDR. Also for many years of meritorious work in these areas as well as in administration and in the medical professions:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
GDR Dr Theodor Neubauer Medal.jpg

GDR Dr Theodor Neubauer Medal ribbon bronze.png
GDR Dr Theodor Neubauer Medal ribbon silver.png
GDR Dr Theodor Neubauer Medal ribbon gold.png
(Dr. Theodor Neubauer Medaille) 		1959-08-20 The medal was awarded in three classes both to individuals and collectives for extraordinary contributions and achievements in the development of socialist education in the GDR:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold

GDR Medal of Merit of the Maritime Industry in bronze ribbon.png
GDR Medal of Merit of the Maritime Industry in silver ribbon.png
GDR Medal of Merit of the Maritime Industry in gold ribbon.png
(Verdienstmedaille der Seeverkehrswirtschaft) 		1965-07-01 The medal was awarded in three classes for exemplary work successes through active and selfless commitment or longstanding meritorious activities in the field of maritime transport:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold

GDR German Post Medal of Merit in bronze ribbon.png
GDR German Post Medal of Merit in silver ribbon.png
GDR German Post Medal of Merit in gold ribbon.png
(Verdienstmedaille der Deutschen Post) 		1970-11-19 The medal was awarded to individuals in three classes for outstanding achievements in the development of the postal and telecommunications system. Also for services in ensuring the constant operational readiness of the telecommunication systems:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
GDR Medal of Merit of the German Railroads.jpg

GDR Medal for Merit for German Railroads 3rd Class BAR.png
GDR Medal for Merit for German Railroads 2nd Class BAR.png
GDR Medal for Merit for German Railroads 1st Class BAR.png
(Verdienstmedaille der Deutschen Reichsbahn) 		1956-10-18 The medal was awarded in three classes for selfless service, for high achievements or for courage:
  • 3rd class
  • 2nd class
  • 1st class
GDR Medal for Merit in the Peoples Control.jpg

GDR Medal for Merit in the Peoples Control ribbon 1st level.png
GDR Medal for Merit in the Peoples Control ribbon 2nd level.png
GDR Medal for Merit in the Peoples Control ribbon 3rd level.png
(Medaille für Verdienste in der Volkskontrolle der DDR) 		1973-02-12 The medal was awarded in three classes for many years of exemplary work in the People's Control of the GDR and for excellent results in the control of the implementation of the resolutions of the SED and the government of the GDR:
  • 3rd class
  • 2nd class
  • 1st class
GDR Pestalozzi Medal for Faithful Services.jpg

GDR Pestalozzi Medal for Faithful Services ribbon bronze.png
GDR Pestalozzi Medal for Faithful Services ribbon silver.png
GDR Pestalozzi Medal for Faithful Services ribbon gold.png
(Pestalozzi-Medaille für treue Dienste) 		1956-11-15 The medal was awarded in three classes to teachers and educators of vacational and educational institutions of the GDR.
  • 10 years (Bronze)
  • 20 years (Silver)
  • 30 years (Gold)
Medal for Long Service for Voluntary Helpers in Guarding State Borders.jpg

GDR Medal for Long Service for Voluntary Helpers in Guarding State Borders ribbon 5.png
GDR Medal for Long Service for Voluntary Helpers in Guarding State Borders ribbon 10.png
GDR Medal for Long Service for Voluntary Helpers in Guarding State Borders ribbon 15.png
GDR Medal for Long Service for Voluntary Helpers in Guarding State Borders ribbon 20.png
GDR Medal for Long Service for Voluntary Helpers in Guarding State Borders ribbon 25.png
GDR Medal for Long Service for Voluntary Helpers in Guarding State Borders ribbon 30.png


(Medaille für Treue Dienste freiwilliger Helfer beim Schutz der Staatsgrenze der DDR) 		1986-12-05 The medal was awarded in six classes:
  • 5 years service (bronze)
  • 10 years service (bronze)
  • 15 years service (silver)
  • 20 years service (silver)
  • 25 years service (gold)
  • 30 years service (gold)
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in Civil Aviation 40 year spange.jpg

GDR Medal for Faithful Service in Civil Aviation.jpg

GDR Medal for Faithful Service in Civil Aviation in bronze ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in Civil Aviation in silver ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in Civil Aviation in gold level 1 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in Civil Aviation in gold level 2 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in Civil Aviation in gold level 3 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in Civil Aviation clasp ribbon.png
(Medaille für treue Dienste in der zivilen Luftfahrt) 		1962-09-13 The medal was awarded in seven classes:
  • 5 years service (bronze)
  • 10 years service (silver)
  • 15 years service (gold level 1)
  • 20 years service (gold level 2)
  • 30 years service (gold level 3)
  • 35 years service (gold with honour clasp for women)
  • 40 years service (gold with honour clasp for men)
GDR Medals for loyal service in the German railroads 40 year clasp.jpg

GDR Medals for loyal service in the German railroads.jpg

GDR Medals for Loyal Service in the German Railroads 10 yrs ribbon.png
GDR Medals for Loyal Service in the German Railroads 20 yrs ribbon.png
GDR Medals for Loyal Service in the German Railroads 30 yrs ribbon.png
GDR Medals for Loyal Service in the German Railroads honor clasp ribbon.png
(Medaille für Treue Dienste bei der Deutschen Reichsbahn) 		1956-03-18 The medal was originally awarded in three classes increased to five in 1973:
  • 10 years service (bronze)
  • 20 years service (silver)
  • 30 years service (gold)
  • 35 years service (gold with honour clasp for women)
  • 40 years service (gold with honour clasp for men)
GDR Medals for Long Service in Health and Social Services.jpg

GDR Medals for Long Service in Health and Social Services 10 years ribbon.png
GDR Medals for Long Service in Health and Social Services 20 years ribbon.png
GDR Medals for Long Service in Health and Social Services 30 years ribbon.png
(Medaille für Treue Dienste im Gesundheits und Sozialwesens) 		1973-11-15 The medal was awarded in three classes:
  • 10 years servigrantedce (bronze)
  • 20 years service (silver)
  • 30 years service (gold)
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in the German Post.jpg

GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the German Post Grade 1 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the German Post Grade 2 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the German Post Grade 3 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the German Post gold clasp ribbon.png
(Treuedienstmedaille der Deutschen Post) 		1960-10-13 The medal was awarded in five classes:
  • 10 years service (bronze)
  • 20 years service (silver)
  • 30 years service (gold)
  • 35 years service (gold with honour clasp for women)
  • 40 years service (gold with honour clasp for men)
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in the Volunteer Fire Department.jpg

GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the Voluntary Fire Department Grade 4 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the Voluntary Fire Department Grade 3 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the Voluntary Fire Department Grade 2 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the Voluntary Fire Department Grade 1 ribbon.png
(Medaille für Treue Dienste in der Freiwilligen Feuerwehr) 		1959-01-22 The medal was awarded in four classes:
  • 10 years service (bronze)
  • 20 years service (silver)
  • 30 years service (gold)
  • 40 years service (gold with ribbon device)
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in the Maritime Industry 40 year spange.jpg
GDR Medal for Faithful Service in the Maritime Industry.jpg

GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the Shipping Industry Grade 3 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the Shipping Industry Grade 2 ribbon.png
GDR Medal for Loyal Service in the Shipping Industry Grade 1 ribbon.png
(Medaille für Treue Dienste in der Seeverkehrswirtschaft) 		1965-07-01
Amended 1981-09-21 		The medal was awarded in three classes:
  • 10 years service (bronze)
  • 20 years service (silver)
  • 30 years service (gold)
  • 35 years service (gold with honour clasp for women)
  • 40 years service (gold with honour clasp for men)
Medal for Many Years of Duty to Strengthen the National Defense of the GDR.jpg

Medal for many years of duty to strengthen the national defense of the GDR bronze ribbon.png
Medal for many years of duty to strengthen the national defense of the GDR silver ribbon.png
Medal for many years of duty to strengthen the national defense of the GDR gold ribbon.png
Medal for many years of duty to strengthen the national defense of the GDR gold special ribbon.png
(Medaille für langjährige Pflichterfüllung zur Stärkung der Landesverteidigung der DDR) 		1974-08-08 The medal was awarded in four classes to employees of the Defense Industry:
  • 10 years service (bronze)
  • 20 years service (silver)
  • 30 years service (gold)
  • 35 years service for women, 40 for men (special gold)

GDR Humboldts Medal - Higher Education - Bronze BAR.png
GDR Humboldts Medal - Higher Education - Silver BAR.png
GDR Humboldts Medal - Higher Education - Gold BAR.png
(Humboldt-Medaille) 		1975-02-13 The medal was awarded in three classes for exemplary fulfillment of tasks at higher and technical colleges, also for many years of loyal service.
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold

Ministerial and associative awards[]

Ministry of National Defence[]

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
GDR Medal for Merit in Reservist Work.jpg

GDR medal for merit in reservist work lvl 1 ribbon.png
GDR medal for merit in reservist work lvl 2 ribbon.png
GDR medal for merit in reservist work lvl 3 ribbon.png
(Medaille für Verdienste in der Reservistenarbeit) 		1985-05-28 The medal was awarded in three classes to reservists or veterans of military service, for outstanding services in the development and management of reservist work while not on reservist military service:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold
GDR Medal For Faithful Service in the National Peoples Army Reserve.jpg
(Reservistenabzeichen) 		1969 The medal was awarded in three classes:
  • 18 to 24 months service (bronze)
  • 2 to 10 years service (silver)
  • More than 10 years service (gold)
GDR Jubilee Medal 30 Years of the National Peoples Army.jpg
GDR Ehrenmedaille 30 Jahre National Volksarmee BAR.png
(Jubiläumsmedaille 30 Jahre Nationale Volksarmee) 		1986-03-01 The medal was awarded to a select group of people from the NVA, others receiving a related badge.

Ministry of Education[]

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
GDR Lessing Medal.jpg

GDR Lessing medal in silver ribbon.png
GDR Lessing medal in gold ribbon.png


(Lessing Medaille)

1950-04-28 Awarded in 2 classes for excellent performance and very good social and extra-curricular work in senior high school.
  • Silver
  • Gold

Combat Groups of the Working Class of the GDR[]

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
Commemorative Medal 20 Years of Combat Groups of the Working Class.jpg
Commemorative medal 20 years of fighting groups of the working class ribbon.png


(Erinnerungsmedaille 20 Jahre Kampfgruppen der Arbeiterklasse)

September 1973 The medal was awarded in a single class to deserving members of the combat groups of the working class.

Society for Sports and Technology[]

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
GDR Ernst Schneller Medals Bronze & Silver.jpg
GDR Ernst Schneller Medal ribbon bronze.png
GDR Ernst Schneller Medal ribbon silver.png
GDR Ernst Schneller Medal ribbon gold.png


(Ernst-Schneller-Medaille)

1961 The medal was awarded in three classes for outstanding services in the education of youth in defense readiness:
  • Bronze
  • Silver
  • Gold

Free German Youth Society[]

These were awarded to Free German Youth (F.D.J.) members;

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
GDR Artur Becker Medaille.jpg

Artur Becker bronc rib.png
Artur Becker silver rib.png
Artur Becker gold rib.png
(Artur-Becker-Medaille) 		1959 The medal was awarded in three classes for outstanding achievements in the socialist youth association:
  • Awarded by city leadership (bronze)
  • Awarded by county leadership (silver)
  • Awarded by district leadership (gold)
Thälmann-Medaille,Bereit zur Verteidigung der Heimat.jpg

GDR Thalmann medal ribbon.png
(Thälmann-Medaille) 		1951-08-15 The medal was awarded to all participants of the peace demonstration of the Free German Youth.

Socialist Unity Party[]

These were conferred by the Socialist Unity Party (S.E.D.);

Award Ribbon
bar 		Name (English/German) Date of
creation 		Description
Medal of Honor for the 20th anniversary of the GDR.jpg
Medal of Honor for the 20th anniversary of the GDR ribbon.png
(Medaille zum 20. Jahrestag der DDR) 		1969 The medal was awarded in a single class to members of the Socialist Unity Party of Germany and to honoured dignitaries.

See also[]

References[]

  1. ^ Medals of East Germany
  2. ^ East German Medals
  3. ^ Bernzen, Enno; Feder, Klaus H.: Das Tragen von Auszeichnungen der DDR im vereinten Deutschland. In: Deutsch-deutsche Rechts-Zeitschrift (DtZ) 1995
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