Slovakia, Republic. A Rare Order Of Prince Pribina, Iii Class Commander, Military Division, C. 1942

(Rad Kniežat'a Pribinu). Instituted April 8, 1940. Military Division. A III Class decoration composed of silver gilt, the obverse presents a star shape with clusters of four short smooth rays, between each cluster presents three blue enamel hills of Slovakia representing Tatra, Matra and Fatra with a double Christian cross above the hills, the obverse medallion presents a left facing portrait of Prince Pribina, surrounded by a ring of rays and a thing blue enamel ring, the reverse medallion presents  a building with emanating rays in silver gilt surrounded by the inscription SAECULO NONO INTANTE FUNDAVIT (A generation is not founded instantly”), the badge is suspended from a wreath with crossed swords, maker marked on integral loop presenting a “K” denoting manufacture at the national mint a Kremnica, marked “987”, measures 54.65mm (w) x 77.80mm (h – inclusive of sword suspension), weighs 50.1 grams (including ribbon), worn on a full length neck ribbon, enamels intact, evident wear, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of Pribina was established on April 8, 1940 and named in honour of the Prince and national hero. It was the highest Slovakian Order until it was disbanded in 1944, therefore decorations of this order are exceedingly rare in any class.