A Croatian Order of Merit Third Class with Miniature Grand Cross
Order of Merit with Miniature Grand Cross - Third Class Breast badge in silver and enamels, with miniature Grand Cross attached to ribbon. Cross measures 36 x 36mm, mounted on original ribbon. This particular example is a very first issue of this Order having a low profile, at the same level as enamel (not raised above the enamel), composed of the Croatian Coat of Arms in form of a triple braid (known in Croatian as 'pleter'). Later manufactured examples (and more common) have triple braid raised above the enamel. Of good quality make, worn, enamels intact and without chipping. Without maker's mark though Zagreb's 'Braca Knaus' was the only maker of this award. Cross is toned, and in very fine condition. Extremely rare cross.

