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 civilian and military personnel who demonstrated exceptional service to the Crown, national unity, and public affairs.
This specific piece is a Commander’s Cross (III Class), issued in 1930, designed to be worn on a neck ribbon.
Specifications
Dimensions: 76.15 mm (height) x 54.75 mm (width)
Material: Gold-plated silver with intricate enamel detailing
Condition:
Original neck ribbon present but with cut ends on both sides
Overall excellent condition (Condition-I), well-preserved with minor wear consistent with age
Design Features
Overall Structure
Elegant white enamel cross, symbolizing purity and honor.
Intricate gold-plated details, enhancing royal prestige.
Obverse (Front) Details
Central medallion featuring the Yugoslav royal crown, representing the monarchy and national unity.
Reverse (Back) Details
Engraved date: "3-X-1929" (October 3, 1929), marking the official renaming of the Kingdom.
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.
Original ribbon present but cut at both ends (please refer to pictures).
Historical Context & Significance
Creation & Purpose
Founded in 1930 by King Alexander I following constitutional reforms to strengthen national unity.
Awarded to:
Yugoslav citizens who promoted national cohesion and public service.
Foreign dignitaries who assisted Yugoslavia in diplomacy and state affairs.
Ranked above the Order of St. Sava in the Kingdom’s honor system.
Political & Military Background
King Alexander I (ruled 1921–1934) implemented monarchical reforms to consolidate ethnic and political factions.
The order was discontinued in 1945 after the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of Communist Yugoslavia under Josip Broz Tito.
Today, it 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 was awarded in 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.
This Yugoslavia – Order of the Yugoslav Crown, Commander’s Cross (1930 Issue) is a historically significant and highly collectible royal order, representing the legacy of King Alexander I and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
Authentic Commander Class military and civil decoration.
Intricate gold-plated silver craftsmanship with detailed enamel work.
Original ribbon with cut ends; otherwise well-preserved (Condition-I).
Symbolic connection to Yugoslavia’s monarchy and national unity.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel quality, and craftsmanship.