Croatia, Independent State. An Order of the Crown of King Zvonimir, I Class with Swords, c.1941

(Red krune kralja Zvonimira). Instituted in 1941. Badge: two-piece construction, in bronze gilt with white enamels, measuring 51 mm (w) x 52 mm (h), intact enamels, scattered gilt wear, on a modern shortened length of war ribbon; and Breast Star: insignia with a two-piece construction, in bronze gilt with white enamels, measuring 35 mm (w) x 36.8 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) on both the reverse of the star and the pin, along with being hallmarked with a Croatian rooster beside the Roman numeral II and marked with the NDH state hallmark on the reverse of the star, measuring 69 mm (w) x 70.5 mm (h), horizontal pinback, repair 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.