Braunschweig, Duchy. A War Merit Cross I Class certificate_of_authenticity with suspension ring on black

with suspension ring on black and red ribbon

with its period original slightly shortened ribbon

He held the rank of Feldwebel (Sergeant) and may have received additional promotions

he was instantly killed when and (an) enemy shell exploded in the dugout

Braunschweig, Duchy. A War Merit Cross I Class certificate_of_authenticity with suspension ring on black(Kriegsverdienstkreuz I. Klasse). Instituted 20 March 1918 by Duke Ernst August. (1918 issue). Constructed of bronze, consisting of a Cross Patte, the obverse bearing a central monogram of Duke Ernst August, flanked by oak leaves, topped by a crown, and situated above a date of 1914, the reverse with a barrel hinge and vertical pinback meeting a round wire catch, unmarked, measuring 40. 36 mm (w) x 40. 55 mm (h), weighing 20. 5 grams, an award piece