Imperial German merchant ensign, 1871-1919 pattern. The use of this design was revived briefly between 1933 and 1935. It belonged to the German steamer 'Adjutant' 1905, captured by the British early in the war and recaptured by the Germans in the Rufiji River. She was dismantled and transported by rail to Kigoma on Lake Tanganika to reinforce the German flotilla on the lake. When the British achieved air supremacy in the region and began bombing raids on the town, 'Adjutant' was destroyed so she could not fall into enemy hands and be reassembled.

The flag is made of wool bunting with a cotton hoist and is machine sewn. A rope and clip is attached for hoisting. There is a hand sewn hem at the fly edge.