The "Blood Order"

(Medaille zur Erinnerung an den 9. November 1923)

Instituted in March 1934, the "Blood Order" (Blutorden), officially known as the Decoration in Memory of the 9th November 1923 (Medaille zur Erinnerung an den 9. November 1923), was one of the most prestigious decorations in the Nazi Party.

The first issue of the decoration, struck in 99% pure silver, was awarded to 1500 participants in the Munich putsch who had also been members of the party or one of its formations before January 1932 (continuous service), or had been cadets from the Munich Infantry School who marched in support of Ludendorff. All medals were numbered (except Hitler's and Göring's) and awarding was done very carefully.

In May 1938, the award was extended.

Award Criteria

served time in prison for Nazi activities before 1933

received a death sentence which was later commuted to life imprisonment for Nazi activities before 1933

been severely wounded in the service of the Party before 1933

members of the Austrian Nazi Party who had participated in the 1934 February Uprising or July Putsch,

had received significant prison time or injuries for National Socialist activities.

It could also be bestowed on certain other individuals at the discretion of Adolf Hitler, the last recipient being Reinhard Heydrich (posthumous).

If a holder of this medal left the party, the medal would have to be relinquished.

NSDAP -"Blood Order" 1923 - 1933

Heinrich Himmler seen wearing the ribbon to the "Blood Order" as prescribed in regulations

SS-Oberführer Emil Maurice with full Blood Order in wear