Yugoslavia (Serbia), Kingdom. A Cross of Charity, c.1918

(Križ Milosrđa). Instituted in 1913. In bronze gilt with red enamels, first version with "1912" in small text on the reverse centrepiece, measuring 40.2 mm (w) x 40.2 mm (h), intact enamels, scattered gilt wear, correct modern triangular ribbon with hook and eye, near extremely fine. Footnote: The Cross of Charity was instituted on June 7, 1913, established in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia by King Peter I of Serbia. Peter I was the king of Serbia during a period of great Serbian military success, he was remembered by the Serbian people as King Peter the Liberator, and also known as Old King. The medal was to be awarded to men or women in or out of the military who aided victims of the 1912-1913 First Balkan War (which lasted from October 8, 1912 to May 30, 1913), the sick and wounded. It could be awarded to Serbians and non-Serbians alike, to military and civilians, and to Red Cross volunteers. During the Balkan War, foreign awards could be granted for service in a red cross or medical capacity. Many women who served with the French or the Serbs were awarded decorations, although there is no gazette entry for them. It was manufactured by Arthus Bertrand of Paris and Huguenin Frères of Le Locle, Switzerland.