Bulgaria, Kingdom. An Order of Civil Merit, Commander's Star, by Johann Schwerdtner, c.1900

(Орден за гражданска заслуга). Instituted 1891. Type I. 1891-1906 Issue. An impressive and large multiple ray four armed star in silver, obverse featuring a four armed white enamelled Pison cross in bronze gilt, the quadrants embellished with detailed enameled green laurel branches also in bronze gilt, with central cypher backed by beautiful enameled red background, surrounding by Cyrillic lettering on a white enamel border, reverse with pin assembly and maker’s cartouche Johann Schwerdtner Wien, measuring 94.05 mm (w) x 94.76 mm (h), with enamel loss to central cypher and light overall wear, remains better than very fine.

Footnote: The Order of Civil Merit was established by Prince Ferdinand I, and it was conferred in recognition of exceptional achievements in Bulgarian civil life and society.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.