National Prize of East Germany
The National Prize of the GDR was in the German Democratic Republic a existing as of the March 31, 1949 award, which in three classes for "outstanding creative work in the fields of science and technology, major mathematical and scientific discoveries and technological inventions, the introduction of new working - was and production methods " or for" outstanding works and achievements in the fields of art and literature awarded ".
The award was presented annually by 7 October, the "Day of the Republic". By way of derogation from October 7 National awards were given for outstanding scientific achievements in the field of competitive sports and in sports medicine in some Olympic years collectives. At the completion of the Palace of the Republic National prizes were awarded in April 1976 also. Not only individual GDR citizens, foreigners or groups of individuals could receive the award if they have performed for socialist science or culture. Especially with all outstanding scientific achievements researchers collectives and individuals were not awarded the prize often. The National Prize was awarded in three classes; the first class was with a cash prize of 100,000 marks, the second class with 50,000 marks and III. Class associated with 25,000 marks. A multiple award recipient of the same was possible.
The badge consisted of a round until the early seventies 750 - he gold medal, then gilded medal at 26mm. Your front showed a portrait of Goethe and the word " German Democratic Republic ", the back was " National Prize " labeled with the word. The medal was to be worn on the upper right side of the chest.
In the first year the award was the caption on the back " German National Prize of the Goethe 1949 ". The award was presented on 25 August 1949 and thus before the founding of the GDR, by the Bureau of the German People's Council in Berlin. The corresponding document was signed by Wilhelm Pieck, and others. The coin 1949 on the belt was made of gold and had a diameter of 25 millimeters.