A textbook example of a SS 8-Year Long Service Award (SS-Dienstauszeichnung); in bronze; unmarked, but these medals were produced exclusively by Deschler & Sohn of Munich and Lorenz of Unterreichenbach; exquisite manufacturing quality with very fine details; the obverse bearing the standard SS runes within an oak leaf wreath with ribbons on the bottom of the wreath; the reverse inscribed “Für Treue Dienste in der SS” (For Loyal Services in the SS) superimposed on the numeral “8”; on loop for suspension, and with its period original cornflower blue ribbon with a horizontal pinback sewn onto the reverse; measuring 37.96 mm in diameter; weighing 21.2 grams. Accompanied by its original case of issue; constructed of lightly textured black faux leather (leatherette) exterior; the exterior of the lid embossed with the SS runes in silver; inside lined with grey felt; the exterior leatherette hinge well preserved; measuring 103 mm x 44 mm; mint condition.
Footnote: The SS long service awards were first introduced by A.H. on January 30, 1938, and according to predominant historian, Christopher Ailsby, the awards ceased to be awarded at the end of 1941. These medals were produced exclusively by Deschler of Munich and Petz & Lorenz of Unterreichenbach, however, this example is unmarked.