Bulgaria, Kingdom. An Order Of St. Alexander, Merit Cross With Swords

(Орден "Свети Александър"). Instituted in 1881. In silvered bronze, measuring 36.7 mm (w) x 52.5 mm (h) inclusive of its cross swords and ring suspension, scattered silvering wear, original triangular ribbon with hook and eye, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of St. Alexander was the second highest Bulgarian order during the Kingdom of Bulgaria. It was established by Knyaz Alexander I and named after his patron saint (Alexander Nevsky). The order was established with a decree on December 25, 1881, 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 and in 1908 a Grand Cross was added. With 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.