With scientific achievements, it was often given to entire research groups rather than individual scientists.

The National Prize was awarded on 7 October, "Day of the Republic" (German: Tag der Republik) every year since 1949.

This coveted award could be given to East German citizens, groups, and even foreigners provided they made crucial contributions to socialist culture and science.

On the reverse are the words "National Award" (German: Nationalpreis) circled by a pair of laurel wreaths.

The ribbon bar consisted of the vertical bars consisting of the national colors of black, red and gold with a gold medal GDR state symbol attached to the center of the ribbon.