Croatia, Independent State. A Rare Order of Merit I Class Star, Women’s Version, by Braća Knaus

Instituted 10 April 1942. (1942-1945 issue). Constructed of silver with enamels, the obverse consisting of a four-pointed radiant star, bearing a central applique consisting of a six-pointed trefoil-style star with spaces occupied by red enamel, in turn overlaid by a central silver Ustaše insignia, measuring 23.96 mm (w) x 27.28 mm (h) indicating a women’s version, the reverse bearing a central applique with a raised inscription of “ZA ZASLUGE 10. IV. 1942” (“FOR MERIT 10 APRIL 1942”), with a raised barrel hinge and flattened vertical pinback meeting a flat wire catch, the catch bearing a silver hallmark and the logo of Braća Knaus, Zagreb, measuring 74.42 mm (w) x 75.35 mm (h), weighing 37.0 grams, with minor tarnishing evident, a rare award in overall extremely fine condition.