Medals Database – Medals of East Germany (DRG/DDR)

Medals from the Democratic Republic of Germany

Explore awards, badges, and military medals from the GDG/DDR/East Germany

The German Democratic Republic (GDR), also known as East Germany, was a socialist state that existed from 1949 to 1990 in the eastern part of Germany during the Cold War. The German Democratic Republic established a variety of medals and decorations to recognize achievements and service in various fields such as military, civil service, labor, and social contributions. On this page, you will find the complete list.

A (Very) Brief History of The GDR

The GDR was established on October 7, 1949, in the Soviet-occupied zone of post-World War II Germany, following the creation of the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) in the western zones. The division of Germany into East and West was a result of geopolitical tensions between the Soviet Union and the Western Allies (the United States, the United Kingdom, and France).

The GDR was a one-party state governed by the Socialist Unity Party of Germany (or SED). The party maintained strict control over the government, economy, and society. Key leaders included Walter Ulbricht (1950-1971), Erich Honecker (1971-1989), and Egon Krenz (1989).

Flag of the German Democratic Republic (1959–1990)
Flag of the German Democratic Republic (1959–1990)

All The Democratic Republic of Germany Medals

In the German Democratic Republic (GDR), medals and decorations played a significant role in recognizing various forms of service and achievements. The highest honor was the Order of Karl Marx, named after the influential socialist philosopher. This medal was awarded for exceptional contributions to the state and society, often to prominent political leaders and influential figures in the arts, sciences, and industry.

Another distinguished award was the Hero of the German Democratic Republic, which recognized extraordinary heroism or outstanding achievements in service to the state. Recipients were typically those who made significant contributions to the GDR’s military or societal progress. For military personnel, the Scharnhorst Order was a prominent decoration, named after the Prussian General Gerhard von Scharnhorst. It was awarded for exemplary service and leadership within the National People’s Army. 

The GDR also had a series of labor and social awards, reflecting the socialist state’s emphasis on work and community contributions. The Banner of Labor was a notable example, awarded to individuals, collectives, and enterprises for exceptional achievements in productivity and socialist competition. Additionally, the GDR recognized contributions to education, health, and culture. Teachers, doctors, artists, and scientists could receive various medals and orders, such as the Patriotic Order of Merit, which came in different classes to honor varying degrees of achievement.

Honorary Titles of the GDR

The German Democratic Republic (GDR) conferred various honorary titles to recognize exceptional contributions in different sectors such as arts, science, literature, and public service. One notable title was Hero of the GDR (Held der DDR), awarded for extraordinary heroism or achievements that significantly advanced the state’s socialist agenda. 

State Orders of the GDR

State orders in the German Democratic Republic were prestigious awards granted to individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to the nation. The highest state order was the Order of Karl Marx, established in 1953 and awarded for exceptional service in promoting socialism.

Military Decorations of the GDR

Military decorations in the GDR were designed to honor the service and achievements of its armed forces personnel. The Scharnhorst Order, named after the Prussian military reformer, was one of the highest military honors, awarded for exemplary leadership and service in the National People’s Army. The Medal for Faithful Service in the National People’s Army recognized long-term service, with different levels for five, ten, fifteen, twenty, and twenty-five years of service

Civilian Decorations of the GDR

The GDR also awarded numerous civilian decorations to recognize contributions to society, culture, and the economy. For instance, the Banner of Labor was a prominent civilian award given to individuals and collectives for significant achievements in production and innovation. 

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