Bulgaria, Kingdom. An Order Of Military Merit, Grand Cross, C. 1917

(Орден за Военна Заслуга). Instituted May 18, 1900 by Ferdinand I. Type I. A Grand Cross badge, presenting a red enamelled arrow cross with crossed swords piercing the medallion between the arms, the obverse medallion features the white enamel cypher of found Knyaz Ferdinand on a red field, with a dark green exterior ring inscribed ЗА ВОЕННА ЗАСЛУГА (For Military Merit), the reverse features a rampant crowned lion on a red field, surrounded by a green ring inscribed 2 АВГУСТЪ 1891 (2 August 1891), the cross is surmounted by a large Princely crown with interior red enamel cap and long pendilia, measures 75.3mm (w) x 113.8mm (h – inclusive of cross adorned surmounting crown), weighs 76.2 grams, paired with a grand sash of yellow, black and white silk, enamel chips on both obverse and reverse tip of the 12 o’clock arm, center lion on reverse is loose, but otherwise in near extremely fine condition.

Footnote: This Order was instituted by Ferdinand I and it was conferred upon military personnel in recognition of significant contributions to the development of the Bulgarian Army, and for dedicated, exceptional service. The Grand Cross was awarded to high-ranking Military personnel, such as Generals, and Senior State Officers.