Germany, Imperial. A Merit Cross, Gold Grade, for 65 Years

(Verdienstkreuz in Gold mit Jahreszahl “65”). Instituted 27 January 1912 by Kaiser Wilhelm II. (1912-1918 issue). Constructed of gilded bronze, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a Maltese Cross with pebbled arms, both the obverse and reverse with a central monogram of Kaiser Wilhelm II, the obverse twelve o’clock arm with a medallion bearing a number “65”, unmarked, measuring 41.10 mm (w) x 42.40 mm (h), weighing 14.9 grams (inclusive of ribbon), in extremely fine condition.