Croatia, Independent State. A Ustasha Defence Badge 1941-1943 United Republic of reliable and conscientious

reliable and conscientious

circumscribed by the inscription ERNST LUDWIG GROSSHERZOG VON HESSEN

with adjustable zink loops and buckles

Composed of a non-magnetic metal alloy and brass

bronze floral insignia

Croatia, Independent State. A Ustasha Defence Badge 1941-1943 United Republic of reliable and conscientiousIn die stamped aluminum, without maker's mark but known to have been manufactured by Braca Knaus of Zagreb, number stamped "1161" on the reverse, measuring 43 mm (w) x 57 mm (h), missing its pinback, residue evident in the recessed areas, fine. Footnote: This badge was worn by the members of the Ustasha Defense Units. The primary role of the Ustasha Defense was security and policing of the camps like Jasenovac, Stara Gradiska, and others. These units