Croatia, Independent State. A Cased Order of the Crown of King Zvonimir, III. Class with Swords, c. 1942

(Red Krune Kralja Zvonimira). Instituted May 17th, 1941 (c. 1942 issue). An extremely well preserved and fine quality manufacture example of this award, consisting of a Croatian three-leaf clover, constructed of heavily fire-gilded bronze, consisting of a white enameled cross with gilded ornaments and a raised white enameled central medallion bearing the Crown of King Zvonimir with crossed gilded swords in the center, the reverse enameled in white, dated “1076 - 1941” and inscribed “Bog I Hrvati” in capitalized gilded lettering, suspended from a broad oval swivel suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon, unmarked but displaying the manufacturing characteristics of Braća Knaus of Zagreb, measuring 41.4 mm (w) x 42.1 mm (l), weighing 21.34 grams inclusive of its ribbon, a fine quality example in better than extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by its presentation case, constructed of a lightweight wooden frame with a lightly textured burgundy/purple faux leather exterior, along with a functional dual exterior metal hinges, intact interior fabric hinge cover, and functional push-button closure, the exterior of the case embossed with “Red Krune Kralja Zvonimira III. Stupnja” in gilt lettering, the interior of the lid with an off-white cushioned silk-blended fabric and with a recessed dark blue felt medal bed for placing of the award, measuring 84 mm (w) x 120 mm (l), with some of the lettering rubbed off from age and storage, in near extremely fine condition.