Medaille Zur Erinnerung An Den 1 Oktober 1938 Appraisal

German WWII 1st October 1938 Commemorative Medal (Medaille zur Erinnerung an den 1. Oktober 1938)

This is a German commemorative military medal from the Third Reich era, specifically the 'Occupation of the Sudetenland' medal. The medal is circular in shape, likely constructed from a bronze-colored die-struck alloy or 'Kriegsmetall' (war metal) with a dark patinated finish. The obverse features a central raised swastika surrounded by an inscription that reads 'EIN VOLK, EIN REICH, EIN FÜHRER' (One People, One Empire, One Leader), bordered by a raised oak leaf wreath. The reverse, though not visible here, typically features the date '1. Oktober 1938'. The medal is suspended by a small ring from its original silk-like ribbed Moire ribbon. The ribbon consists of a large central violet or dark purple stripe bordered by narrow black, white, and red stripes at the edges. Regarding condition, the metal shows significant oxidation and surface wear, particularly at the bottom edge where a whitish calcification or corrosion is present. The ribbon is in poor condition, showing significant fraying at the top, fading, and structural weakness with small holes visible near the top fold. This medal was designed by Richard Klein and produced by several manufacturers during the 1938-1940 period to commemorate the annexation of the Sudetenland.