Croatia, Independent State. An Order Of The Iron Trefoil, Iii Class, C.1942

(Red Željeznog Trolista III. Stupnja). Instituted 27 December 1941. (1941-1945 issue). Constructed of non-ferrous black lacquered metal, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a Croatian Cross with finely-pebbled arms, the obverse bearing a central raised disc overlaid by a silvered and enameled coat of arms of the Independent State of Croatia, with a silvered trefoil design throughout the arms, the reverse bearing a raised inscription of “ZA DOM SPREMNI” (“FOR OUR HOMELAND - READY”), with a date of “10. IV. 1941”, unmarked but with the physical characteristics of manufacture by Braća Knaus, Zagreb, measuring 40.76 mm (w) x 41.96 mm (h), weighing 15.1 grams, some deterioration of the obverse applique is evident, along with minor loss of silver finish, in overall near extremely fine condition.