The SS 8-Year Long Service Medal was instituted in 1938 to reward members of the SS for prolonged and faithful service.

On the obverse, the SS runes are depicted in the center, surrounded by the inscription: “Für treue Dienste in der SS” – “For faithful service in the SS.”

The reverse features a large numeral 8, indicating the number of years of service, along with a decorative wreath of oak leaves.

The ribbon is black with two narrow silver stripes along the edges – a typical color scheme of the SS. The medal was worn on the ribbon, either on a medal bar or directly on the uniform.

The medal was awarded for 8 years of impeccable service in the ranks of the SS. Previous service in the police or other affiliated structures could also be counted if they were part of the SS.

This is one of the rarer classes of the award, as the period of issuance was relatively short, and the organization ceased to exist in 1945.