Bulgaria, Principality. A Military Order of Bravery, IV Class to Herr Ernest Meiswinkel

 (Военен орден за храброст). Instituted in 1880. Multi-piece construction, insignia in bronze gilt with red and white enamels, mounted to a cross with crossed swords base in silvered bronze with red enamels, unmarked, measuring 40.2mm (w) x 41.7 mm (h- inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension), intact enamels, scattered silvering wear, enamels intact, near extremely fine. 

In its hardshelled case of issue, dark green textured exterior, the lid marked with the Imperial crown above the monogram of Tsar Boris III (reign: 1918-1943), inscribed "ОРДЕНЪ "ЗА ХРАБРОСТЪ" IV. Степень. II. Класъ." in gold-coloured ink, inside lid in off-white satin and padded, base with a recessed medal bed in thick white velvet, measuring 61.5 mm (w) x 110.5 mm (h) x 20 mm (d), exhibiting light wear on the exterior, hinge and clasp functional, better than very fine.

Accompanied by a document dated 8.3.1943, naming the recipient “Ernest Meiswinkel.” The document states: “Sehr geehrter Herr Meiswinkel 
Die Staffel übersenden ihnen beiliegend die vom König von Bulgarien an Ihren Lieben Sohn Ernest verliehene Auszeichnung "Tapferkeistsorden IV Klasse, 2. Stufe". Die Verleihungsurkunde liegt noch nicht vor. sie wird ihnen nach eingang nachgereicht”
(Dear Mr. Meiswinkel,
The squadron encloses the "Order of Bravery, IV Class, 2nd Grade," awarded by the King of Bulgaria to your beloved son Ernest. The award certificate is not yet available. It will be sent to you upon receipt.)