Croatia, Independent State. An Order Of Merit, Iii Class, Christian Version, C. 1942 Hold NANKING" maker's name in English

NANKING" maker's name in English and Chinese (Mandarin) and the National Chinese sun insignia

numbered "15380" on the reverse of the brooch

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

Bruns was hospitalised for more than a year

the VM ribbon having experienced separation and is taped in place on the reverse

Croatia, Independent State. An Order Of Merit, Iii Class, Christian Version, C. 1942 Hold NANKING" maker's name in English(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