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

(Red krune kralja Zvonimira). Instituted in 1941. Insignia with a three-piece construction, in bronze gilt with white and green enamels, measuring 35.2 mm (w) x 36 mm (h), mounted to a frosted silver eight-pointed star base, the reverse of the star maker marked "BK" (Braća Knaus, Zagreb) and hallmarked with a Croatian goose flanked by a "III' at the left and an "A" on the right, vertical pinback, wartime repair evident in the white enamels on the arm of the insignia at 12 o'clock that gives this area a yellowed-look, very 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.