Bulgaria, Kingdom. An Order of Civil Merit, V Class Knight, c. 1940

Instituted August 2, 1891 by Prince Ferdinand I. Type II (1908-1944). In frosted silver, an arrow cross with white enamel arms and oak leaf branches in each quadrants, the obverse center presenting the monogram of the founder Knyaz Ferdinand I on a red enamelled background, surrounded by a white enamel ring inscribed ЗА граждански ЗАСЛУГА (For Civil Merit), reverse centre presenting the crowned Bulgarian Lion on red enamelled background, with surround presenting the orders institution date, measures 50.93mm (w) x 55.00mm (h – inclusive of integral ball), weighs 26.9 grams (inclusive of ribbon), on a heavily faded and worn original triangular ribbon, enamels intact, wear to silvering on oak leaf branches, overall near very fine condition.

Footnote: This Order was established by Prince Ferdinand I, and it was conferred at the discretion of the Monarch in recognition of exceptional achievements in Bulgarian civil life and society. The Order originally consisted of 6 grades, and the Grand Cross with Grand Cross Breast Star was added to the Order in 1933 by Boris III. The V Class Knight was awarded to foreign and Bulgarian middle ranking Officials. The V Class Knight was also awarded to women. When it was conferred upon a woman it was known as the II Class Ladies' Cross and it was worn on a bow ribbon.