History

The 5th Company of Selbstschutz (literally "self protection") Beuthen was the largest unit during the clashes with Polish insurgents during the occupation of the city of Beuthen. It existed between 1921 and 1923. In 1921, the commander, Wilhelm Pisarski, instituted an honour badge for particularly faithful and brave members of his unit. Pisarski designed the award himself.
At a later date, the award could also be bestowed upon members of other units of Selbstschutz Beuthen.

The badge was awarded as a I and a II Class. The only difference is in the method of attachment to the uniform: the I Class award features a pinback, while the II Class features a ribbon ring at the top.

The award is in the form of a cross. The original award was probably silvered, however, blackened and bronze-colour examples also exist. In the centre of the cross is the city crest of Beuthen, featuring a miner on the left and half an eagle on the right. An oak leaf wreath spans between the cross arms. The 12 o'clock arm features the inscription "ERINNERUNG 5.1. S.S. KOMP." (for Selbstschutz-Kompanie), and the 6 o'clock arm the inscription "1921/22 BEUTHEN O/S. NORD".
Some crosses lack the 12 o'clock arm inscription.