The Order of the Yugoslav Flag (IV Class) was a prestigious award bestowed during the Yugoslav era, recognizing extraordinary contributions during the People's Liberation War (World War II) and efforts to foster national spirit and promote peaceful relations with other nations. This particular decoration highlights the recipient’s dedication to Yugoslavia’s socialist ideals and its vision of unity and international cooperation.
Specifications
Class: IV Class (one of the lower classes in the hierarchy of the order).
Dimensions:
Width: 55.86 mm
Height: 50.03 mm
Manufacturer:
Reverse Markings: Includes the hallmark "Ikom, Zagreb", the official mint that produced many Yugoslav orders and decorations.
Design Features
Obverse:
The medal prominently features the Yugoslav flag, symbolizing national unity and the socialist state.
Reverse:
Plain except for the hallmark "Ikom, Zagreb", confirming the authenticity of the piece as a Yugoslav-era award.
Attachment:
Worn on a ribbon with national colors, featuring red, blue, and white stripes to represent the Yugoslav flag.
Purpose and Significance
Award Criteria:
Recognized individuals for heroic acts, extraordinary contributions during the People’s Liberation War, or significant efforts toward national and international peace.
Recipients:
Approximately 900 awards of the IV Class were conferred, making it one of the more widely distributed classes in this order.
Recipients included military personnel, civilians, and international figures who contributed to Yugoslavia's national and socialist causes.
Historical Context
Established: As part of Yugoslavia's post-World War II awards system to honor contributions to the liberation and development of the country.
People's Liberation War: The decoration is tied to the resistance movement against Axis occupation during World War II, led by Josip Broz Tito and the Partisans.
Yugoslav Socialist Era: The order also recognized peacetime contributions that aligned with the state’s goals of international unity, socialism, and peaceful diplomacy.
The Order of the Yugoslav Flag, IV Class is a powerful symbol of heroism, unity, and peace, commemorating significant contributions to Yugoslavia’s development during and after the People’s Liberation War. With its distinctive design, historical value, and limited issuance, this medal is a prized collectible for military historians and enthusiasts of socialist-era memorabilia.