Croatia, Independent State. A Rare Order of the Crown of King Zvonimir, Grand Cross, c.1941

(Red krune kralja Zvonimira). Instituted in 1941. Badge: two-piece construction, in bronze gilt with white enamels, measuring 59.2 mm (w) x 59.5 mm (h), intact enamels, on an original bow-tied war ribbon but without its accompanying sash; and Breast Star: insignia with a two-piece construction, in bronze gilt with white enamels, measuring 41 mm (w) x 41.5 mm (h), mounted to a silver eight-pointed star base, each star point with seven emanating rays, maker marked "B.K." (Braca Knaus of Zagreb) and hallmarked with a Croatian rooster beside the Roman numeral II on the reverse of the star and on the pin, along with being marked with the NDH state hallmark on the pin, measuring 95.5 mm (w) x 96 mm (h), horizontal pinback, chipping evident in the white enamels in two areas on the arm at 6 o'clock on the insignia. Near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Crown of King Zvonimir was an order awarded by the Independent State of Croatia (NDH). It was established as a "visible sign of decoration for merits done, in peace or in war, for the Croatian people and the Independent State of Croatia" by Croatian leader Ante Pavelić on May 15, 1941. The bearers of the grand order and first class order were given the title of knight (vitez). It was awarded for achievements that benefit the people or state of Croatia, in five grades: Grand Cross, I Class with Star, I Class, II Class, and III Class, plus three Medals (Silver, Bronze, Iron). Awards were made 'with wreath' for merit in action under fire or 'with swords' for war merit.