The medallion is in brass and enamels, measures 42.8 mm in height (incl. eyelet), 40.7 mm in width, weighs 30.7 g. The center medallion features the East Germany state emblem encircled by the inscription reading "For Protection of the Workers' and Peasants' Power." The presentation box has black plastic bottom lined with light foam rubber inside, the lid is in Plexiglas.

The medallion, suspension, and ribbon bar are in excellent condition. Both pin attachments are clean and perfectly functional. The lid of the box is only slightly scuffed, not very obviously and not obscuring the medal inside.

The order (original name "Kampforden für Verdienste um Volk und Vaterland" was instituted on 17 February 1966, in three classes: bronze, silver, and gold. It was the second highest military decoration in the German Democratic Republic, awarded to members of the NVA for outstanding service or merit in heightening the combat strength and readiness of the National People's Army; safeguarding the state borders of the German Democratic Republic; or strengthening and improvement of the socialist home defense.