Croatia, Independent State. An Order Of Merit, Iii Class, Christian Version, C. 1942 Hold the spine bearing a name

the spine bearing a name and title in gilt script

Bruns was hospitalised for more than a year

"Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice" (for Church and Pontiff) Cross

the reverse with a central red enameled disc bearing a raised monogram of Prince Leopold II

measuring 250 mm (w) x 215 mm (h))

Croatia, Independent State. An Order Of Merit, Iii Class, Christian Version, C. 1942 Hold the spine bearing a name(Red za zasluge). Instituted in 1942. In silver with red enamels, measuring 37 mm (w) x 39. 5 mm (h) inclusive of its integral suspension, intact enamels, residue evident in the recessed areas, on its original triangular ribbon with hook and eye, near extremely fine. Footnote: The Order of Merit was instituted on April 10, 1942 and awarded in four grades: Grand Cross, I Class, II Class and III Class, with separate insignia for Christian and Moslem