Grand Cross Set of the 2nd Type. Sash Badge, 92 x 64.5 mm., in gilt Silver with white enameled pointed cross and green enameled oak leaves and red enameled acorns between the arms, obverse centre medallion with white enameled cipher on red enameled ground, within white enameled outer circlet with the cyrillic motto “FOR CIVIL MERIT” in gold lettering, the reverse with centre medallion with gilt, crowned lion on red enamel, within white enameled outer circlet with cyrillic inscription “2. August 1891” in gold lettering, royal crown with enameled details and inner cap, grooved and pearled suspension ring, original, full-length sash with bow and rosette. Breast Star, 94 mm., with superimposed, brilliant-cut and pierced gilt-silver and silver rays, the centre with white enameled pointed cross and green enameled oak leaves between the arms, obverse centre medallion with white enameled cipher on red enameled ground, within white enameled outer circlet with the cyrillic motto “FOR CIVIL MERIT” in gold lettering, “frosted” and polished reverse with four nuts retaining the elements of the obverse, polished centre disc broad pin, in the original red case of issue (fitted compartment, missing) with gold embossed Bulgarian crown and indication of the class, plain inner cushion. A beautiful set, of the best Austrian quality, style and workmanship allow us to attribute its production to Rothe & Neffe, Vienna. The Order for Civil Merit, formerly known as National Order for Merit Until the creation of the Order for Military Merit), was instituted on August 2nd 1891, was destined to reward exceptional merits and deeds in any field of the social life, culture, arts, science, etc. to nationals and foreigners. On most limited occasions, by special grace of the sovereign, the order could have been awarded with brilliants. I (-)