Rare German WW2 Luftschutz Civil Defense Decoration 1st & 2nd Class Medal Set, 1938

This outstanding German World War II Luftschutz Civil Air Defense Honor Decoration collection includes both the rare 1st Class Luftschutz Honor Decoration dated 1938 with ribbon and the 2nd Class Luftschutz Service Medal dated 1938 with ribbon. The 1st Class award is the centerpiece of the grouping and is an extremely rare decoration, with award numbers commonly reported at only approximately 150 recipients. It is of die-struck alloy construction with a gilt wash and features a cross form with a central swastika surrounded by the embossed Latin inscription "Für Verdienste im Luftschutz", meaning "For Meritorious Service in Air Defense." The reverse bears the embossed institution date 1938, while the medal loop and ribbon suspension ring remain intact. It is complete with its original ribbed rayon ribbon, showing slight fading from age.

Also included is the 2nd Class Luftschutz Service Medal, a silvered zinc decoration measuring approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. This medal features a circular oak leaf wreath surrounding a central mobile swastika and bears the inscription "Für Dienste im Luftschutz", meaning "For Services in Air Raid Protection." The reverse is also dated 1938, and the medal retains its original ribbon. Together, the two awards create a highly desirable and rarely encountered Luftschutz decoration set, representing both meritorious and exceptional service within Germany's wartime civil air defense system.

The Luftschutz Civil Defense Decorations were instituted on January 30, 1938 for award to personnel serving in organizations connected to German air raid protection and civil defense. These included the Reichsluftschutzbund, or National Air Raid Protection League, the Sicherheits und Hilfs Dienst, or Security and Assistance Service, the Werkschutz, or Factory Protection Police, and the Ordnungspolizei, or Order Police. As Allied bombing campaigns intensified, Germany's air defense and civil protection organizations played an increasingly important role in emergency response, factory protection, rescue work, fire suppression, and civilian survival on the home front.

This is a fantastic and historically significant award grouping, especially due to the inclusion of the exceptionally scarce 1st Class Luftschutz Honor Decoration. The strong presentation, original ribbons, 1938-dated reverses, Luftschutz inscriptions, and veteran bringback history make this a standout offering for collectors of German WWII medals, Luftschutz material, civil defense awards, home-front history, and rare Third Reich decorations.

Provenance: Veteran bringback.

Why Buy From Us?

• 5-star rated store trusted by collectors
• Fast, reliable shipping
• Expertly handled collectibles, always packed with care