Croatia, Independent State. An Order Of Merit, I Class Grand Officer, Christian Version, By Braca Knaus, C.1943

(Red za zasluge). Instituted in 1942. In frosted silver with red enamels, maker marked "BK" (Braća Knaus, Zagreb) and NDH state hallmarked on the pin, measuring 70.5 mm (w) x 71 mm (h), vertical pinback, remains very fine. Accompanied by the star of the order, in silver with red enamels, measuring 44.5 mm (w) x 47.7 mm (h - inclusive of its integral suspension), intact enamels, light silvering wear, without ribbon, near extremely fine.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.