Bulgaria: Soldier’s Cross of the Military Cross of Bravery, 1stClass, 1915-1918. Scarce/rare gold-gilt bronze cross, originally established inJanuary of 1880, to recognize enlisted soldiers and NCO’s for bravery incombat. This is the version issued in 1916, with the date “1915,” after Bulgariaentered the First World War on the side of the Central Powers. This example isa relatively rare late issue that spells Bulgaria differently than the earlierissued crosses: “As the war progressed, a further sub-issue of the ‘1915’ onehas been minted. It bears an updated text on the reverse - “КНЯЗЬ НА БЪЛГАРИЯ“(the word Bulgaria is written in accordance with the new Bulgarianorthography). Additionally, the sword handles look slightly thicker, comparedto the previous issues. These crosses have been minted at the later stages ofthe war and thus are relatively rare” (see Soldier's Cross of the MilitaryOrder "For Bravery"; Bulgarian Royal Decorations (2017-2026)internet). On previous issues of this cross, Bulgaria was spelled “БЪЛГАРIЯ.“ Thecross is in near extremely fine condition, on what is almost certainly theoriginal bi-fold ribbon; the ribbon is faded with a little light staining, butotherwise intact. Authenticityguaranteed; 14-day return privilege (30 days overseas), excluding postage,provided item is returned in same condition when sold. Item will be shippedUSPS First Class Mail; will combine postage for multiple purchases.
