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. A large and well manufactured multiple ray four armed star in silver, obverse presenting a four armed white enamelled Pison cross in bronze gilt, each quadrant embellished with detailed enamelled green laurel, with the central cypher backed by a red enamelled background, surrounded by the Cyrillic inscription 3А ГРАЖДАНСКА 3АСЛУГА (For Civil Merit) on a white enamel border, reverse presents a pin assembly and maker’s cartouche for Johann Schwerdtner Wien, measuring 94.02 mm (w) x 94.61 mm (h), weighs 70.9 grams, with slight enamel loss to central cypher and light overall wear, lovely patina, overall better than very fine condition.

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.