Polizei Long Service Award (Police Long Service Medal)

The Polizei-Dienstauszeichnung was instituted on 18 August 1938 by Adolf Hitler as a way to honor long-serving members of the German Ordnungspolizei (Order Police). The example shown here is the 25-Year Service Cross, awarded for a quarter-century of loyal service.

Key Features:

• Design: A silvered Maltese cross, featuring the National Eagle emblem over a wreath with a swastika on the obverse.
• Reverse: Inscribed with "Für treue Dienste in der Polizei" ("For Faithful Service in the Police").
• Ribbon: Dark blue with a slight sheen, representing the police branch, and fitted with a suspension ring.
• Material: Typically struck in tombak (brass alloy) and finished in silver wash.

Did You Know?

These medals were awarded in 4 classes:

• 8 Years (medal form)
• 18 Years (silver cross)
• 25 Years (gold cross)
• 40 Years (gold cross with oak leaves)
  
  

Despite its military appearance, this was a civil service award and worn on dress uniforms by non-combat police officials.

Issued during both peacetime and wartime service — though rarer examples exist with citations.