Croatia, Independent State. An Order of Merit, I Class Grand Cross Star for Christians, c.1942

(Red za zasluge). Instituted in 1942. Four-piece construction, cross insignia in silver with red enamels, the cross indicating an award to Christians, inscribed "10.IV. / ZA ZASLUGE / 1942" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 86.3 mm (w) x 85.7 mm (h), vertical pinback, intact enamels, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Merit was instituted on April 10, 1942 and was awarded in four grades: Grand Cross, I Class, II Class and III Class, with separate insignia for Christian and Moslem recipients.