The award was instituted on 24 June 1941 by Grand Admiral Erich Raeder to reward the actions of both individuals and crew members.

It consists of an outer laurel wreath of oak leaves with the German Eagle at the top, displaying "down-swept" wings while clutching a swastika (both gold in colour).

The central area featured a coastal artillery gun with the sea behind (in grey colour).

[2] The medal was worn on the lower part of the left breast pocket of the naval service tunic.

[3] A crew could receive the award by achieving eight points:[4][5] The badge was issued in a single degree only.