Croatia, Independent State. An Order of the Crown of King Zvonimir, Silver Grade Medal, by Braća Knaus, c.1941

(Red krune kralja Zvonimira). Instituted in 1941. In silver, maker marked "BK" (Braća Knaus, Zagreb) and hallmarked with a Croatian goose flanked by a "III' at the left and an "A" at the right on the ring, measuring 32.5 mm (w) x 45 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, exhibiting speckled surface wear, a bronze wreath of oak leaves clasp affixed to its original lightly soiled triangular war ribbon with hook and eye, near extremely fine. In its cardboard box of issue, gray dimpled paper exterior, inscribed "Srebrna kolajna / Krune kralja Zvonimira / s hrastovim grančicama" on the lid, recessed medal bed, exhibiting light soiling and wear throughout, along with a tear on one side panel on the lid, box 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.