Bulgaria, Kingdom. An Order Of St. Alexander, V Class Knight's Cross, C.1910

(Орден "Свети Александър"). Instituted in 1881. Multi-piece construction, in silver with red and white enamels, unmarked, measuring 38.7 mm (w) x 45.2 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, intact enamels, original triangular ribbon with hook and eye, extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, deep red pebbled exterior on five sides, black bottom, the lid marked with the Imperial crown surmounting the monogram of Tsar Ferdinand I (reign: October 5, 1908 - October 3, 1918) and inscribed "ОРДЕНЪ СВ. АЛЕКСАНДРБ IV. СТП." in gold-coloured ink, inside lid in off-white satin with a distinctive sheen, padded and exhibiting the impression of the cross, base with a recessed medal bed in black felt, measuring 61.2 mm (w) x 105.5 mm (h) x 23 mm (d), exhibiting wear and soiling on the lid, the interior pristine, case fine.

Footnote: The Order of St Alexander was the second highest Bulgarian order during the Kingdom of Bulgaria. It was established by Knyaz (Prince) Alexander I with a decree on December 25, 1881, named in honour of the patron saint of Alexander Battenberg. Initially it was planned to have five grades and a necklace but subsequently four grades and grand and lesser Necklace were formed, with a Grand Cross being added in 1908. In time, wartime grades with swords in the middle and above the cross were added. The order was awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens with the personal benevolence of the Bulgarian monarch, who was the Grand Master.