Croatia, Independent State. An Order Of Merit, I Class Badge For Christians, Ladies Issue, C.1942 Newly Listed USS Essex Sew-On Patch

USS Essex Sew-On Patch

flanked on each side by three oak leaves and sun rays with acorns

center appliqu in silver gilt

my sweetheart

and a Blank Scroll)

Croatia, Independent State. An Order Of Merit, I Class Badge For Christians, Ladies Issue, C.1942 Newly Listed USS Essex Sew-On Patch(Red za zasluge). Instituted on April 10, 1942. Two piece construction, in silver and red enamels, hollowed which allows for a lighter wear by the recipient, unmarked but known to have been manufactured by Braa Knaus of Zagreb, which was the only maker of this award, measuring 44. 3 mm (w) x 47. 5 mm (h) inclusive of its integral suspension, unique ribbon look on the loop securing the bow tied style ribbon with pinback, intact enamels, scattered