Croatia, Independent State. An Order Of The Crown Of King Zvonimir, Grand Cross, By Braca Knaus, C.1941

(Red krune kralja Zvonimira). Instituted in 1941 by Ante Pavelić. Civil Division. 1941-1945 Issue. A sash badge consisting of an enameled white gilded-bordered Croatian Cross in bronze gilt, each arm embellishing by typical Croatian molines in wearing gilt, with central obverse featuring the King Zvonimir Crown on a white enamel background, the reverse bearing date 1076 for King Zvonimir’s coronation, as well as BOG I HRVATI (God and the Croats), and 1941 for the establishment of the NDH, measuring 59.22 mm (w) x 60.46 mm (h), on a typical Croatian ornamented open loop suspension, suspending by an original full-length short section of sash with bow for civilian issue, light contact, extremely fine condition. Accompanied by the star of the Order, a sharp-rayed eight-pointed star in frosted silver, the obverse exhibiting an enameled white Croatian Cross with central King Zvonimir Crown in bronze gilt, reverse with horizontal principle pin assembly, marked on reverse and pin by Croatian hallmark denoting .800 silver fineness, as well as maker’s mark of Braca Knaus together with unidentified Croatian hallmark, measuring 94.44 mm (w) x 96.15 mm (h), with wearing surfaces, light contact, very fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of the Crown of King Zvonimir was established by Croatian leader Ante Pavelić on May 15, 1941. It was awarded by the Independent State of Croatia (NDH) as a "visible sign of decoration for merits done, in peace or in war, for Croatian people and Independent State of Croatia". It was abolished together with the NDH after the Second World War. Demetrius Zvonimir was king of Croatia during the 11th century. His reign was a peaceful and encouraging one, being loyal vassal to the Pope. 

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.