You are bidding on a stunning antique World War I emblematic diploma issued to William Zilevieze of Brockton, MA.  Highly uncommon, this certificate was created by the National Service Emblem Company in 1918 and includes many patriotic images, including a number associated with WWI.   Above the words, "THis Emblematic Diploma" is a photo of William Zilevieze, albeit faded.  I couldn't find much on Private William Zilevieze but I was able to find an old "Official US Bulletin" that indicated that he was "Missing in Action" but had returned to duty...likely being separated from his troop/company during fighting and was able to rejoin them after the war had concluded.  This was January 21, 1919 by Gen. John J. Pershing in the European Theater.  This was obviously after the war was finished.

The emblematic diploma is quite large and framed.  As framed, it measures 23 3/4" x 27 3/4".  The image size is 17" x 21".  It appears to have been reframed and was found still wrapped in plastic, with the white cardboard corners (as shown).  The fame is spectacular and the diploma is surprisingly bright for its age, likely from being stored out of light for a number of years.  There appears to be small tear on the top center and some minor wear to the certificate in general (likely from age) but otherwise very clean for its age.  Although the copyright date of the emblematic diploma is 1918, I assume this was issued in 1919 upon William's return home.  A terrific find.

Lastly, I left the second photo in there even though it makes the diploma look yellow, likely due to glare.  I think you can get a better understanding of the frame in this image.  And sorry for the higher shipping costs but it is large and somewhat heavy.

I use the US Postal Service and use priority mail to ensure quick delivery although size/weight can often be a deterrent due to a balloon fee on boxes over a certain size. Shipping costs are based on weight and distance from my home in Fairhaven, MA. In simplest terms, I ship priority mail unless it is a book (then I ship using media mail) or if the item is bigger than a breadbox or heavier than 5 lbs (unless I can fit it in a flat rate box).   I'm also open to local pick-up at my home in Fairhaven.

I've been selling on Ebay since 1998 but this is not a full time job. I'm happy to answer all questions but please be aware that these questions are normally answered after I have returned home from work. I encourage you to look at my other auctions for a wide variety of items. I often sell glass, pottery, books, art, clothing and other unusual items one may find at yard sales and estate sales. Best of luck in your bidding and thanks for your time looking at my auction.