Bulgaria, Kingdom. An Order of St. Alexander, IV Class Officer

(Орден "Свети Александър"). Instituted in 1881. Type II with Imperial Crown (1908-1944). The cross in silver gilt with red and white enamels, the Imperial crown suspension in silver gilt with red, white and green enamels, measuring 38.8 mm (w) x 68.5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, chipping evident in the white enamels on the reverse centerpiece, large rosette affixed to its original triangular ribbon with hook and eye, very fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, red dimpled exterior, the lid marked with the Imperial crown and inscribed "ОРДЕНЪ СВ. АЛЕКСАНДРБ IV. СТП." in gold-coloured ink, inside lid in white satin with a distinctive moiré and padded, base with a recessed medal bed in black felt, measuring 68 mm (w) x 131.5 mm (h) x 28.5 mm (d), exhibiting a black scuff mark on the lid and top end panel, case near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of St Alexander was the second highest Bulgarian order during the Kingdom of Bulgaria. It was established by Knyaz (Prince) 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.