Croatia, Republic. A Ustasha Defence Badge, c. 1941-1943, Ground Found

In die-stamped aluminum in the shape of a shield, ground found, obverse with the Ustasha insignia in the centre, inscribed "1941-1943" above and "OBRANA" below, all within a traditional intricate Croatian border, reverse number stamped "2178", measuring 44.2 mm (w) x 57 mm (h), missing its attachment, residue evident on both sides, fair.

Footnote: The badge was worn by members of the Defence units, whose primary role was security and policing of Prisoner of War and Labour Camps. The units were under the command of Eugen Dido Kvaternik initally, with Maks Luburic taking command in 1942.