Designed by Otto Placzek of Berlin, the badge features an outer laurel wreath of oak leaves with the national emblem of an eagle clutching a swastika at its apex, both in golden color. The central area depicts a sea mine exploding. Initially produced in bronze, the badge was later made in zinc. Late-war versions, of inferior quality, often appear dull gray as the gold gilt tended to wear off.
The medal was worn on the lower part of the left breast pocket of the naval service tunic, underneath the 1st class Iron Cross or an equivalent grade award if received.
