The medal was designed by Professor Richard Klein of Munich. It was a circular bronze award bearing the design of the War Merit Cross on the front (obverse), and the inscription "For War Merit 1939" (Für Kriegsverdienst) on the reverse side. German military decoration awarded to recognize outstanding service by civilians in connection with the war effort. Instituted on 19 August, 1940 the medal was restricted to civilians - both German and non-German - and was awarded predominantly to those working in war factories.