Bulgaria, Kingdom. An Order of St. Alexander, V Class Knight with Swords, c.1935

(Орден "Свети Александър"). Type II (1908-1944). Instituted in 1881. In silver with red and white enamels, measuring 38.5 mm (w) x 45 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, spotting evident on the white enamelled arms, the enamels themselves intact, original triangular ribbon with hook and eye, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of St Alexander was the second highest Bulgarian order during the Kingdom of Bulgaria. It was established by Knyaz Alexander I with a decree on December 25, 1881, named in honour of the patron saint of Alexander Battenberg. Initially it was planned to have five grades and a necklace but subsequently four grades and grand and lesser Necklace were formed, with a Grand Cross being added in 1908. In time, wartime grades with swords in the middle and above the cross were added. The order was awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens with the personal benevolence of the Bulgarian monarch, who was the Grand Master.