Prussia, Kingdom. A Military Honour Decoration, I Class with Case, by Wagner

(Militär-Ehrenzeichen I. Klasse mit Etui). Instituted 27 February 1864 by King Wilhelm I. (1864-1918 issue). Constructed of silver, on loop for suspension from a period original ribbon stitched in a parade mount, consisting of a Cross Pattée with ribbed borders, the obverse bearing a central raised inscription of “KRIEGS-VERDIENST” (“WAR MERIT”), above a semi-circular laurel leaf wreath, the reverse bearing a central raised monogram of King Wilhelm I, the six o’clock arm marked along the edge with a silver content number of “938” and with a “W” indicating manufacture by the firm of Johann Wagner & Sohn, Berlin, measuring 37.86 mm (h) x 41.88 mm (h), weighing 19.5 grams (inclusive of ribbon), accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a heavy card stock frame, the exterior with a faux red leather liner, the interior with a black satin lid liner and depressed black velvet medal bed, opening with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release and a functional metal hinge, unmarked, measuring 66 mm (w) x 55 mm (l) x 23 mm (h), the cross displaying a consistent and age-appropriate patina, in overall extremely fine condition.