Croatia, Independent State. An Order of Merit, Grand Cross, Muslim Issue, by Braća Knaus, c.1942

(Red za zasluge). Instituted on 10 April 1942. Type for Muslim. 1942-1945 issued. A historical piece consisting of a hollow six-pointed moline cross in red enamel and silver, reverse in red enamel with gilded inscription 10.IV. ZA ZASLUGE 1942, suspended by a large ornamented loop suspension, measuring 49.41 mm (w) x 68.43 mm (h - inclusive integral ring suspension), on an original red and white sash, presenting lost of the obverse centrepiece, with toned silver, poor condition. Together with the Order’s star, an eight-pointed star in frosted silver, the obverse featuring an enameled red six-pointed moline cross in silver, with letter "U" with a flaming grenade with the Croatian coat of arms, reverse with central pin assembly and cartouche exhibiting lettering 10.IV. ZA ZASLUGE 1942, makers marked with BK for Braća Knaus, together with Croatian hallmark on pin, as well as hallmark with a goose and Roman numeral "III" denoting .800 silver content, measuring 87.07 mm (w) x 87.25 mm (h), with toned silver, good condition.

Footnote: The Order was founded on 10 April 1942, but it was soon abolished with the end of the Second World War. 

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.