Croatia, Independent State. An Order of Merit, I Class for Ladies, by Braca Knaus, c. 1942

(Red za zasluge). Instituted on 10 April 1942. Christian Type. Ladies Issue. A Croatian-style cross moline (same cross seen on Prince Viselav’s baptismal font) in silver and red-enamelled arms, obverse centre presenting a silver letter "U" with a flaming grenade with the Croatian šahovnica, reverse presenting red-enamelling and the inscription 10.IV. ZA ZASLUGE 1942, measuring 44 mm (w) x 47mm (h - inclusive of integral suspension bar), on ornate detailed suspension loop, attached to a silver bow surrounded the center of the period original bow, with brooch style pinback on reverse of bow, oxidation to silver, enamels intact, very fine condition. Accompanied by the matching star, constructed of silver, a four point star with eleven smooth rays in each quadrant, the first, fifth, seventh and eleventh rays are slightly longer, obverse centre presents a red-enamelled cross, also featuring a silver letter "U" with a flaming grenade with the Croatian šahovnica, reverse centre presenting a silvered cross inscribed 10.IV. ZA ZASLUGE 1942, reverse presents a principle pin assembly, makers marked with BK for Braća Knaus, hallmarked on pin as well as hallmarked with a goose and Roman numeral "III" denoting .800 silver content, measuring 70.5 mm (w) x 71.5 mm (h), displaying no enamel loss, oxidation on silver, clasp bent, near very fine condition.

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.