Bosnia And Herzegovina. An Order Of Military Merit With Silver Swords

Instituted on April 14, 1994. In silver, a round medal with textured edge, the obverse bears the silhouette of the geographical territory of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina with two crossed swords on top, the reverse also shows the geographical shape, with the inscription ORDEN R BiH 1944, the reverse is marked S990 and SF denoting manufacture by the workshop of Fahrudin Softic of Sarajevo, the badge is suspended from a triangular metal support in silver gilt with alternating green and white enamel stripes, in the alcove of the border sits a flower in the form of a rosette, the reverse of the suspension features a pin, measures 39.75mm (w) x 86.25mm (h – inclusive of suspension), weighs 32.2 grams, light contact marks, areas of discolouration, a very rare decoration which remains in extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by a ribbon bar featuring a green and white enamel stripe on each edge with a blue enamel center, the reverse presents a horizontal pin, marked SOFIC F & Co SARAJEVO, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of Military Merit with Silver Swords is awarded to commanders of military units and institutions, who by their example and skill in working in the unit or institution, which they command or lead, contribute to the achievement of the set tasks, or who in the unit or institution have created the conditions for achievement of exceptional results, or who are distinguished by such commanding and military qualities that they serve as an example to others. The order can also be awarded to military units and institutions for many years of successful work and achieved results in developing and strengthening the armed forces of the RBiH.

The order is also awarded to citizens serving in military units and institutions, as well as to citizens in companies, state bodies and organizations and other legal entities, who, by their example and skill in work, achieve and contribute to the achievement of extraordinary results in the realization of an immediate task of special significance for defense. Four members of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina were awarded the Order of Military Merit with Silver Swords.