Croatia, Independent State. An Order of King Zvonimir's Crown, I Class with Swords, c.1942

In bronze gilt with white enamels, unmarked but of typical B. Knaus of Zagreb manufacture, 50.3 mm (w) x 51 mm (h), on a shortened replacement neck ribbon, light scuffing on the white enamels on the reverse, otherwise the enamels are intact, extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, marked "Red krune kralja Zvonimira 1. stupnja s mačevima" on the lid, recessed medal bed, extensive wear and soiling evident on the exterior, case near fine.

Footnote: The Order of King Zvonimir's Crown was an order awarded by the Independent State of Croatia (NDH). It was established by Croatian leader Ante Pavelić on May 15, 1941, as a "visible sign of decoration for merits done, in peace or in war, for Croatian people and Independent State of Croatia". The bearers of the grand order and first class order were given the title of knight (vitez). It is inscribed "BOG I HRVATI" with the dates "1076" (King Zvonimir's crowning) above and "1941" (the establishment of the NDH) below.