Bulgarian Order for Civil Merit, Silvered Cross, Ferdinand I Period
Key Information:
• Country: Bulgaria
• Order: Order of Civil Merit
• Class: 6th Class
• Year of issue: 1891 type
• Dimensions: approx. 49.91 x 45.06 mm
• Material: Silvered metal
• Suspension: Triangular ribbon
Medal Design:
Obverse:
• Cross with broad tapered arms
• Oak wreath between the arms
• Central medallion with crowned Bulgarian coat of arms
• Circular inscription: ЗА ГРАЖДАНСКА ЗАСЛУГА
Translation: For Civil Merit
• Date at bottom: 1891
Reverse:
• Central monogram of Ferdinand I
• Circular inscription: ФЕРДИНАНД I
Translation: Ferdinand I
Ribbon:
• Triangular ribbon in white with green and red edge stripes
Condition:
• Light age-related wear and natural patina to the silvered surface
• Details of wreath and central medallions remain well defined
• Ribbon shows visible age wear and light staining
• For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Order of Civil Merit was instituted during the reign of Ferdinand I and awarded for distinguished civil service to the Bulgarian state. The 6th Class cross represents one of the foundational grades of the order and is a desirable piece among collectors of Balkan and European decorations.
Summary:
Original Bulgarian Order of Civil Merit 6th Class, 1891 issue, complete with triangular ribbon, an attractive and historically important addition to any European orders collection.