Bulgaria, Kingdom. An Order of Military Merit, V Class in Case

Instituted 1900 by Ferdinand I. Type I (1900-1944). In silver, a red enamelled arrow cross with silver crossed swords piercing the medallion, the obverse medallion features the monogram of founder Knyaz Ferdinand on red enamel backing, surrounded by green enamel ring with inlaid inscription ЗА ВОЕННА ЗАСЛУГА (For Military Merit), reverse center presents a rampant lion on a red enamel background, surrounded by a green enamel ring with inlaid inscription 2 АВГУСТЪ 1891 (2 August 1891, measures 50.8mm (w) x 54.4mm (h – inclusive of integral ball suspension), weighs 27.0 grams, worn on the original triangular ribbon, very small flake to tip of 9 o’clock of reverse otherwise enamels intact, wear to ribbon, in overall extremely fine condition.

Contained its original case of issue featuring a red leatherette exterior and lid bearing the Imperial crowned cypher of Tsar Ferdinand I (reign: 1887-1908) above the inscription "ОРДЕНЪ ЗА ВОЕННА ЗАСЛУГА V. C III." inside lid lined in a white synthetic material, padded and exhibiting the impression of the missing award, white cardboard insert placed within the base and incorporating a recessed medal bed in navy blue felt, single-hinged, latch closure, measuring 64.58mm (w) x 108.8mm (l) x 20.8mm (d), hinge and clasp functional, light exterior wear consistent with age, the V.C.III. to exterior lid has been amended, in overall very fine condition.