Yugoslavia - Order of the Yugoslav Crown, Commander's Cross (Orden Jugoslavenske Krune, Komandirski Krst)
The Order of the Yugoslav Crown (Orden Jugoslavenske Krune) was established on April 5, 1930, by King Alexander I of Yugoslavia to commemorate the renaming of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes to the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. It was awarded to both civilians and military personnel who contributed to national unity, the Crown, and public service.
This specific piece is a Commander’s Cross (III Class), issued in 1930, and was awarded on a neck ribbon.
Specifications
Dimensions: 76.80 mm (height) x 55.19 mm (width)
Material: Gold-plated silver with intricate enamel details
Condition:
Ribbon replaced (not original).
Overall excellent condition (Condition-I), well-preserved with minor wear expected for its age.
Manufacturer: Sorlini, a renowned producer of royal and military decorations.
Design Features
Overall Structure
Elegant cross with white enamel arms, symbolizing purity and honor.
Intricate gold-plated details, enhancing its regal appearance.
Obverse (Front) Details
Central medallion features the Yugoslav royal crown, representing the monarchy and unity of the Kingdom.
Reverse (Back) Details
Engraved date "3-X-1929" (October 3, 1929), marking the official renaming of the country.
Royal monogram "A" for King Alexander I, emphasizing the order’s royal heritage.
Suspension & Ribbon
Designed to be worn around the neck, as per Commander Class regulations.
Replaced ribbon, reducing originality but not historical significance.
Historical Context
Creation & Purpose
Established in 1930 by King Alexander I, following his constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening national unity.
Awarded to:
Yugoslav citizens who promoted unity within the Kingdom.
Foreign nationals who assisted Yugoslavia in diplomatic and public service matters.
Ranked above the Order of St. Sava in the Yugoslav award system.
Political & Military Background
King Alexander I ruled from 1921–1934, enacting reforms that attempted to consolidate ethnic and political factions.
The order was discontinued in 1945 following the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of Communist Yugoslavia under Josip Broz Tito.
Continues as a dynastic order, with modern appointments made by Alexander, Crown Prince of Yugoslavia.
Hierarchy of the Order
The Order of the Yugoslav Crown had five classes:
Grand Cross (I Class) – Worn with a sash and breast star.
Grand Officer (II Class) – Worn with a breast star and neck ribbon.
Commander (III Class) – Worn on a neck ribbon (this piece).
Officer (IV Class) – Worn on a triangular breast ribbon.
Knight (V Class) – Entry-level award, worn on a triangular ribbon.
Manufacturers & Production
Produced by Artis Bertrand (France) and Huguenin (Switzerland), known for their exquisite craftsmanship.
Some later versions were produced in Yugoslavia, including by Sorlini.
This Yugoslavia - Order of the Yugoslav Crown, Commander’s Cross (1930 Issue) is a historically significant and highly collectible award, representing the legacy of King Alexander I and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
Despite a replaced ribbon, its exquisite enamel work, royal engravings, and association with a key historical period make it a valuable addition to any collection of royal European orders.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel quality, and manufacturer’s hallmarks.