Croatia, Republic. An Order of Merit, I Class Cross for Ladies, c.1944

Red za zasluge). Instituted 10 April 1942. (1942-1945 issue). Constructed of silver with enamels, consisting of an Anchor Cross with red enameled arms, the obverse bearing a silver Pleter pattern cross with a central Ustaša emblem, the reverse with an institution date of “10. IV. 1942” and an inscription of “ZA ZASLUGE” (“FOR MERIT”), the twelve o’clock arm with an integral loop and suspension ring connecting to a stylized ribbon and a period original bowtie ribbon with horizontal pinback, unmarked, measuring 44.39 mm (w) x 47.41 mm (H), weighign 34.5 grams (inclusive of ribbon), tarnishing and flecking of enamels evident, in near extremely 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.