The War Merit Medal 1939 (Kriegsverdienstmedaille 1939) represents a significant decoration of Nazi Germany that was awarded during World War II. This non-ferrous metal medal on ribbon exemplifies an important aspect of the military honors system of that era and documents the recognition of wartime service.

The War Merit Medal was instituted on August 19, 1940 by Adolf Hitler. It was introduced as part of the system of war merit decorations, which also included the War Merit Cross in various classes. The medal served to recognize merit in war, both for military and civilian personnel who had distinguished themselves in the service of the German Reich.

The medal was awarded in two different versions: with swords for merit in direct combat areas and without swords for merit on the home front or in rear areas. This distinction made it possible to honor both front-line soldiers and persons in the armaments industry, administration, or other war-essential sectors.

The medal's design features a steel helmet on the obverse, surrounded by an oak leaf wreath. The reverse bears the inscription “FÜR KRIEGSVERDIENST” (For War Merit) along with the date “1939”, referencing the beginning of World War II. The medal was manufactured from various materials, with non-ferrous metal (a copper alloy) being the most commonly used material, especially in the later war years when precious metals became scarce.

The ribbon of the War Merit Medal featured red with white side stripes and black outer stripes. This color combination was based on traditional German Reich colors and was characteristic of the war merit decorations of the Third Reich.

The award criteria were established in various decrees and regulations. The medal could be awarded for individual outstanding achievements or for long-term dutiful fulfillment of tasks within the framework of war service. The performance had to exceed the normal standard expected of a soldier or civilian in their position.

During the war, millions of these medals were awarded, making it one of the most frequently bestowed decorations of the Third Reich. The high number of awards reflects both the long duration of the war and the mobilization of nearly all sectors of society for the war effort.

From a collector's and historical perspective, these medals are important witnesses to history today. They document the award system of the Nazi regime and provide insight into the propaganda and motivation strategies of that time. The use of non-ferrous metal instead of precious metals in many specimens also illustrates the increasing material shortages in Germany during the course of the war.

After the end of World War II, the Law on Titles, Orders and Decorations of 1957 in the Federal Republic of Germany declared all Nazi decorations invalid. Wearing these medals was prohibited if Nazi symbols such as the swastika were visible. This legal regulation continues to this day.

For military-historical research, such objects nevertheless remain of great significance. They enable us to understand the complex system of military honors and societal mobilization during World War II. The War Merit Medal 1939 stands as an example of the NS regime's attempts to foster loyalty through decorations and maintain the war effort.