Croatia, Independent State. An Order of Merit, II Class Badge, c.1942

(Red za zasluge). Instituted in 1942. Type for Muslim. An ornately designed badge in the traditional Croatian wattle pattern, also known as the pleter or troplet, in silver, consisting of six red enamelled arms, obverse centre presenting a silver letter U with a flaming grenade with the Croatian šahovnica, together on a red enamelled background, reverse presenting Za Zasluge (For Merit) with institution date of 10 April 1942, with pin assembly, measuring 41 mm (w) x 46.5 mm (h), worn, and near extremely fine.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.