Orders, decorations, and medals of Bulgaria

Orders, decorations, and medals of Bulgaria

Orders, decorations and medals of Bulgaria are regulated by the law on the Orders and Medals of the Republic Of Bulgaria of 29 May 2003.
The National Military History Museum Of Bulgaria in Sofia currently has over 150 Bulgarian Orders in the collection, which it has acquired over 85 years in co-operation with the Bulgarian State Mint, which are in the main part imperial, including Orders awarded to Knjaz Alexander, Tsar Ferdinand and Tsar Boris III along with other high ranking military leaders of the Royal Bulgarian Army.

  • Note: Awards shown without ribbons are/were worn in full at all times. Also, like most items which are created by the minting process, mint errors of awards do exist, some which were still issued despite the error (such as off-centred artwork) and some which were discarded (such as incorrect reverses). These mint errors add dimensions to the art of collecting such items. Main error types will also be listed here also. Numbers of Orders/Medals that were in use in both The Tsardom Of Bulgaria and The People's Republic Of Bulgaria show the number awarded during both regimes and not just under the single regime.

Contents

Principality Of Bulgaria/Third Bulgarian Tsardom (29 April 1879-15 September 1946)

The decorations of the Principality Of Bulgaria (29 April 1879-5 October 1908) and the Third Bulgarian Tsardom (5 October 1908-15 September 1946) were divided into orders, medals and honorary insignia. Orders were awarded to civilians and military personnel for particularly great merits in service of the state (For example commanding an army to a victory). Honourary insignia (Badges) were awarded for a specific merit or achievement or due to a specific event (For example being wounded in action) and medals were presented on the occasion of a political or historic event or for merit (For example on the anniversary of independence). Most of the Imperial commemorative medals were only issued once, to participants at the commemorated event and only the highest level personnel could be expected to be at all these events during their term in high status society. No-one was issued every commemorative medal, as during the turbulence of coups, counter-coups and change of monarchs, the high level society was in near constant change.

The Principality Of Bulgaria's first order was created with Article 59 of the Tarnovo Constitution, The Order Of Bravery, which came into force on 1 January 1880 (The order itself shows the date 1879 on the reverse). The highest Tsardom Of Bulgaria award was the Order Of Saint Cyril And Saint Methodius awarded to those who brought outstanding excellence to the culture of the Tsardom Of Bulgaria (The People's Republic Of Bulgaria also created an Order of the same title in three classes but that was a far lower level award for merit in education and science and is not to be confused).

Recently a large amount of FAKE Orders Of People's Liberty 2nd Classes have been offered for sale online. The way to tell the difference between a fake and the real thing is the following:

  • 1 Original orders have the bust facing right
  • 2 Original orders have a screw on the reverse that will fit all other screw back Bulgarian orders
  • 3 Original orders are 4 or 5 piece items without pebbling on the reverse.
  • 4 Fake orders will have one point of the star which looks rubbed down where a later ribbon mounted order has been worn down.
  • 5 The original 4-5 piece construction orders were only issued from 1945-1960 and were not issued in large cases.

Orders

Badge And Ribbon Name(English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date/
Cessation Date
Description Number Awarded
Орден “За Храброст” голям кръст на великия магистър.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Grand Cross Of The Order "For Bravery".
Велик Кръст На Ордена „За Храброст“.

1 January 1880/
15 September 1946
Орден “За Храброст” I степен, емисия до 1915 г.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Bravery"
1st Class 1st Grade
.
Орден „За Храброст“
I Степен 1 Клас
.

1 January 1880/
15 September 1946
BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Bravery"
1st Class 2nd Grade
.
Орден „За Храброст“
I Степен 2 Клас
.

1886/
15 September 1946
Орден „За Храброст“ II ст. до 1915г..jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Bravery"
2nd Class
.
Орден „За Храброст“
II Степен
.

1 January 1880/
15 September 1946
3-1 Орден „За Храброст“ III ст. 1 клас, 1941г..jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Bravery"
3rd Class 1st Grade
.
Орден „За Храброст“
III Степен 1 Клас
.

1 January 1880/
15 September 1946
3-2 Орден „За Храброст“ III ст. 2 клас, 1915г..jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Bravery"
3rd Class 2nd Grade
.
Орден „За Храброст“
III Степен 2 Клас
.

1915/
15 September 1946
Орден „За Храброст“ IV ст. 1 клас, 1945 г.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Bravery"
4th Class 1st Grade
.

1 January 1880/
15 September 1946
There are 6 variations of this Order, four from the first world war, firstly dated 1915, then 1915-1916, then 1915-1917 and finally 1915-1918. During the second world war two additional variations were issued one dated 1941 (whilst Bulgaria was part of the Axis) and one undated which was issued in 1945 (after Bulgaria had joined the Comintern).
Орден „За Храброст“ IV ст., 2-клас 1941 1.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Bravery"
4th Class 2nd Grade
.

1915
15 September 1946
Войнишки знак на ордена „За Храброст“ I степен, емисия 1915 г. (аверс).jpg

CrossOfTheOrderOfBraveryRibbon.gif

Military Cross "For Bravery"
1st Class
.

1 January 1880/
15 September 1946
There are 5 variations of this award, the first was issued until 1915 and is dated 1879 on the reverse (as all variations) and undated on the front with 7 symbols, the second variation, which was issued from 1915-1918 is dated 1915 on the obverse and has Bulgaria written in Cyrillic, the third variation is also dated 1915 on the obverse and has Bulgaria written in Cyrillic with the exception of the letter I which is in Latin. The fourth variation is dated 1941 and the fifth is undated but has a start and two lines on the obverse, which was created in 1945. The first class of this award differs only from the second class by the way of the first class having an additional ribbon sewn across the ribbon suspension.
Войнишки знак на ордена „За Храброст“ II степен, емисия 1915 г. (реверс).jpg

CrossOfTheOrderOfBraveryRibbon.gif

Military Cross "For Bravery"
2nd Class
.

1 January 1880/
15 September 1946
There are 5 variations of this award, the first was issued until 1915 and is dated 1879 on the reverse (as all variations) and undated on the front with 7 symbols, the second variation, which was issued from 1915-1918 is dated 1915 on the obverse and has Bulgaria written in Cyrillic, the third variation is also dated 1915 on the obverse and has Bulgaria written in Cyrillic with the exception of the letter I which is in Latin. The fourth variation is dated 1941 and the fifth is undated but has a start and two lines on the obverse, which was created in 1945.
Войнишки знак на ордена „За Храброст“ III степен, емисия 1915 г. (аверс).jpg

CrossOfTheOrderOfBraveryRibbon.gif

Military Cross "For Bravery"
3rd Class
.

1 January 1880/
15 September 1946
There are 5 variations of this award, the first was issued until 1915 and is dated 1879 on the reverse (as all variations) and undated on the front with 7 symbols, the second variation, which was issued from 1915-1918 is dated 1915 on the obverse and has Bulgaria written in Cyrillic, the third variation is also dated 1915 on the obverse and has Bulgaria written in Cyrillic with the exception of the letter I which is in Latin. The fourth variation is dated 1941 and the fifth is undated but has a start and two lines on the obverse, which was created in 1945. The third class of this award differs only from the fourth class by the way of the third class having an additional ribbon sewn across the ribbon suspension and differs only from the first class by the metal the award is made of (first class being golden and third class being silver).
Войнишки знак на ордена „За Храброст“ IV степен, емисия 1915 г. (реверс).jpg

CrossOfTheOrderOfBraveryRibbon.gif

Military Cross "For Bravery"
4th Class
.

1 January 1880/
15 September 1946
There are 5 variations of this award, the first was issued until 1915 and is dated 1879 on the reverse (as all variations) and undated on the front with 7 symbols, the second variation, which was issued from 1915-1918 is dated 1915 on the obverse and has Bulgaria written in Cyrillic, the third variation is also dated 1915 on the obverse and has Bulgaria written in Cyrillic with the exception of the letter I which is in Latin. The fourth variation is dated 1941 and the fifth is undated but has a start and two lines on the obverse, which was created in 1945. The fourth class of this award differs only from the second class by the metal the award is made of (second class is golden and fourth class is silver)
Орден Св. Александръ с голямо огърлие.jpg

Grand Cross Of The Order Of Saint Alexander.

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946

Order Of Saint Alexander
1st Class
.

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

Order Of Saint Alexander
2nd Class/Grand Officer's Cross
.

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

Order Of Saint Alexander
3rd Class/Commander's Cross
.

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

Order Of Saint Alexander
4th Class/Officer's Cross
.

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

Order Of Saint Alexander
5th Class/Knight's Cross
.

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

Order Of Saint Alexander
6th Class/Silver Cross
.

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Merit".

24 March 1883/
15 September 1946
Орден „За Гражданска Заслуга“ I степен, регентска емисия.jpg

Bg1ocm.gif

Order "For Civil Merit"
1st Class
.

August 1891/
15 September 1946

Bg1ocm.gif

Order "For Civil Merit"
2nd Class
.

August 1891/
15 September 1946

Bg1ocm.gif

Order "For Civil Merit"
3rd Class
.

August 1891/
15 September 1946

Bg1ocm.gif

Order "For Civil Merit"
4th Class
.

August 1891/
15 September 1946

Bg1ocm.gif

Order "For Civil Merit"
5th Class
.

August 1891/
15 September 1946

Bg1ocm.gif

Order "For Civil Merit"
6th Class
.

August 1891/
15 September 1946
Пластина на „Орден за Военна Заслуга“.jpg

Grand Cross Of The Order "For Military Merit".

1933/
15 September 1946
Орден „За Военна Заслуга“ I ст..jpg

Пластина на „Орден за Военна Заслуга“.jpg

Order "For Military Merit"
1st Class
.

18 May 1900/
15 September 1946

Пластина на „Орден за Военна Заслуга“.jpg

Order "For Military Merit"
2nd Class/Grand Officer's Cross
.

18 May 1900/
15 September 1946
Орден „За Военна Заслуга“ III ст. (емисия Борис III).jpg

Пластина на „Орден за Военна Заслуга“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Military Merit"
3rd Class/Commander's Cross
.

18 May 1900/
15 September 1946

Пластина на „Орден за Военна Заслуга“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Military Merit"
4th Class/Officer's Cross
.

18 May 1900/
15 September 1946

Пластина на „Орден за Военна Заслуга“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Military Merit"
5th Class/Knight's Cross
.

18 May 1900/
15 September 1946

Пластина на „Орден за Военна Заслуга“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Order "For Military Merit"
6th Class/Silver Cross
.

18 May 1900/
15 September 1946

Grand Cross Of The Order Of Saint Cyril And Saint Methodius.

18 May 1909/
15 September 1946
OrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

National Order Of Labour
Gold Class
.
Народен Орден На Труда
Златен Степен
.

21 June 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign civilian/state labourers for excellence, outstanding achievements/innovations or excellence in organisation. Also awarded to artists and scientists for long service to the nation.
OrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

National Order Of Labour
Silver Class
.
Народен Орден На Труда.

21 June 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign civilian/state labourers for excellence, outstanding achievements/innovations or excellence in organisation. Also awarded to artists and scientists for long service to the nation.
OrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

National Order Of Labour
Bronze Class
.
Народен Орден На Труда
Бронзов Степен
.

21 June 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign civilian/state labourers for excellence, outstanding achievements/innovations or excellence in organisation. Also awarded to artists and scientists for long service to the nation.

Order Of The 9th September 1944
1st Class
.
Орден „9 Септември 1944“
I Степен
.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who took part in the armed insurrection of 9 September 1944. There are 2 variations of this award for civilians and for military personnel.

Order Of The 9th September 1944
2nd Class
.
Орден „9 Септември 1944“
II Степен
.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who took part in the armed insurrection of 9 September 1944. There are 2 variations of this award for civilians and for military personnel.

Order Of The 9th September 1944
3rd Class
.
Орден „9 Септември 1944“
III Степен
.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who took part in the armed insurrection of 9 September 1944. There are 2 variations of this award for civilians and for military personnel.

Order Of People's Liberty
1st Class
.
Орден „Народная Свобода 1941-1944 гг“
I Степен
.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for the participation in the revolutionary fight of Bulgarian people. 114 of this Order were awarded on the first day of issue (including to Georgi Dimitrov). During the reign of Tsar Simeon II only one variation of this Order was manufactured which was constructed of five parts (Other variations were issued after the Tsar's exile). Designed by B. Angelushev. (1 Foreigner)

Order Of People's Liberty
2nd Class
.
Орден „Народная Свобода 1941-1944 гг“
II Степен
.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for the participation in the revolutionary fight of Bulgarian people. During the reign of Tsar Simeon II only one variation of this Order was manufactured which was constructed of five parts (Other variations were issued after the Tsar's exile). Designed by B. Angelushev. Beware Of Fakes!

Medals

Badge And Ribbon Name(English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date/
Cessation Date
Description Number Awarded
PrinceAlexanderCoronationMedal.jpg

PrinceAlexanderRibbon.gif

"For The Coronation Of Knjaz Alexander Of Battenberg".

c8 July 1879 c200
Liberation1877-1878Ribbon.gif

For Liberation 1877-1878.
За Освобождението 1877-78.

19 July 1880
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

For The Allocation Of War Banners To The Bulgarian Army In 1881.

30 August 1881/
30 August 1881
Personally awarded by Knjaz Alexander during a ceremony on 30 August, 1881. There are two variations of this medal, one with a crown between the ribbon and medal and one without. c50
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

Gold Medal "For Merit" With Crown And Diamonds.
За Заслуга

1886 This was a unique award. Awarded only to Stefan Stambolov, the regent of Bulgaria from 28 August 1886 to 3 September 1886 and from 7 September 1886 to 7 July 1887. 1
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Gold Medal For Merit With Crown.
За Заслуга

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
This was awarded with crown above the medal (and later a reef replaced the crown during the regency). There are 6 variations of the obverse, Knjaz Alexander, Knjaz Ferdinand, Tsar Ferdinand I, Tsar Boris III, Tsar Boris III (With "A" missing from Bulgaria) and a regent coat of arms. If awarded during periods of war (14-28 November 1885, 8 October 1912-30 May, 1913, 29 June-31 July 1913, 14 October 1918-29 September 1918 and 1 March 1941-9 May 1945.) this medal was issued with an alternate war time ribbon. All of these factors together make a great many different variations of this award. 7 of the 66 of these awarded were the Knjaz Ferdinand variation, 6 of which were issued to foreign heads of state. 66
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Gold Medal For Merit.
За Заслуга

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
This was awarded without crown/reef above the medal. There are 6 variations of the obverse, Knjaz Alexander, Knjaz Ferdinand, Tsar Ferdinand I, Tsar Boris III, Tsar Boris III (With "A" missing from Bulgaria) and a regent coat of arms. If awarded during periods of war (14-28 November 1885, 8 October 1912-30 May, 1913, 29 June-31 July 1913, 14 October 1918-29 September 1918 and 1 March 1941-9 May 1945.) this medal was issued with an alternate war time ribbon. All of these factors together make a great many different variations of this award.
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Silver Medal For Merit With Crown.
За Заслуга

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
This was awarded with crown above the medal (and later a reef replaced the crown during the regency). There are 6 variations of the obverse, Knjaz Alexander, Knjaz Ferdinand, Tsar Ferdinand I, Tsar Boris III, Tsar Boris III (With "A" missing from Bulgaria) and a regent coat of arms. If awarded during periods of war (14-28 November 1885, 8 October 1912-30 May, 1913, 29 June-31 July 1913, 14 October 1918-29 September 1918 and 1 March 1941-9 May 1945.) this medal was issued with an alternate war time ribbon. All of these factors together make a great many different variations of this award.
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Silver Medal For Merit.
За Заслуга

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
This was awarded without crown/reef above the medal. There are 6 variations of the obverse, Knjaz Alexander, Knjaz Ferdinand, Tsar Ferdinand I, Tsar Boris III, Tsar Boris III (With "A" missing from Bulgaria) and a regent coat of arms. If awarded during periods of war (14-28 November 1885, 8 October 1912-30 May, 1913, 29 June-31 July 1913, 14 October 1918-29 September 1918 and 1 March 1941-9 May 1945.) this medal was issued with an alternate war time ribbon. All of these factors together make a great many different variations of this award.
TsarBorisIIIBronzeMedalForMerit3rdClassWithCrown.jpg

Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Bronze Medal For Merit With Crown.
За Заслуга

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
This was awarded with crown above the medal (and later a reef replaced the crown during the regency). There are 6 variations of the obverse, Knjaz Alexander, Knjaz Ferdinand, Tsar Ferdinand I, Tsar Boris III, Tsar Boris III (With "A" missing from Bulgaria) and a regent coat of arms. If awarded during periods of war (14-28 November 1885, 8 October 1912-30 May, 1913, 29 June-31 July 1913, 14 October 1918-29 September 1918 and 1 March 1941-9 May 1945.) this medal was issued with an alternate war time ribbon. All of these factors together make a great many different variations of this award.
TsarFerdinandIBronzeMedalForMerit.jpg

Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

BulgarianWarTimeMeritRibbon.jpg

Bronze Medal For Merit.
За Заслуга

25 December 1881/
15 September 1946
This was awarded without crown/reef above the medal. There are 6 variations of the obverse, Knjaz Alexander, Knjaz Ferdinand, Tsar Ferdinand I, Tsar Boris III, Tsar Boris III (With "A" missing from Bulgaria) and a regent coat of arms. If awarded during periods of war (14-28 November 1885, 8 October 1912-30 May, 1913, 29 June-31 July 1913, 14 October 1918-29 September 1918 and 1 March 1941-9 May 1945.) this medal was issued with an alternate war time ribbon. All of these factors together make a great many different variations of this award.
1885SerbianWarRibbon.gif

"In Memory Of The Glorious 1885 Campaign"./
"In Memory Of The Glorious War Of 1885".
Silver Class
Въ Память Славной 1885 Кампаній./
Въ Паметъ На Славната Война Въ 1885 Год.
V Pamjat Slavnoj 1885 Kampanij./
V Pamet Na Slavnata Vojna V 1885 God.

19 February 1886/
7 September 1886
Awarded to Bulgarian veterans of the 14-28 November 1885 war with the Kingdom of Serbia during the reign of Alexander I. This medal was replaced by the "For Participation In The Serbo-Bulgarian War 1885" medal after the abdication of Alexander I. The medal was issued in two variations one with Russian text and one with Bulgarian text.

MedalFor1885Campaign.jpg

1885SerbianWarRibbon.gif

"In Memory Of The Glorious 1885 Campaign"./
"In Memory Of The Glorious War Of 1885".
Bronze Class
Въ Память Славной 1885 Кампаній./
Въ Паметъ На Славната Война Въ 1885 Год.
V Pamjat Slavnoj 1885 Kampanij./
V Pamet Na Slavnata Vojna V 1885 God.

19 February 1886/
7 September 1886
Awarded to Bulgarian veterans of the 14-28 November 1885 war with the Kingdom of Serbia during the reign of Alexander I. This medal was replaced by the "For Participation In The Serbo-Bulgarian War 1885" medal after the abdication of Alexander I. The medal was issued in two variations one with Russian text and one with Bulgarian text.
1885SerbianWarRibbon.gif

For Participation In The Serbo-Bulgarian War 1885
Silver Class.
За Участие В Сръбско-Българската Война 1885.
Za Uchastie V Cr'bsko-B'lgarskata Vojna 1885.

14 November 1886/
????
Awarded to Bulgarian veterans of the 14-28 November 1885 war with the Kingdom of Serbia. c60,000
1885SerbianWarRibbon.gif

"For Participation In The Serbo-Bulgarian War 1885"
Bronze Class.
За Участие В Сръбско-Българската Война 1885.
Za Uchastie V Cr'bsko-B'lgarskata Vojna 1885.

14 November 1886/
????
Awarded to Bulgarian veterans of the 14-28 November 1885 war with the Kingdom of Serbia. c30,000
PrinceAlexanderElectionRibbon.jpg

For The Accession Of Knjaz Ferdinand I
1st Class
.
За Възшествието На Княз Фердинанд I.
Za V'zschestvieto Na Knjaz Ferdinand I.

c7 July 1887/
????
PrinceAlexanderElectionRibbon.jpg

"For The Accession Of Knjaz Ferdinand I"
2nd Class
.
За Възшествието На Княз Фердинанд I.
Za V'zschestvieto Na Knjaz Ferdinand I.

c7 July 1887/
????
PrinceAlexanderElectionRibbon.jpg

"For The Accession Of Knjaz Ferdinand I"
3rd Class.
За Възшествието На Княз Фердинанд I.
Za V'zschestvieto Na Knjaz Ferdinand I.

c7 July 1887/
????
699
PrinceAlexanderElectionRibbon.jpg

"For The Accession Of Knjaz Ferdinand I"
4th Class.
За Възшествието На Княз Фердинанд I.
Za V'zschestvieto Na Knjaz Ferdinand I.

c7 July 1887/
????
1019
PrinceAlexanderElectionRibbon.jpg

"For The Accession Of Knjaz Ferdinand I"
5th Class.
За Възшествието На Княз Фердинанд I.
Za V'zschestvieto Na Knjaz Ferdinand I.

c7 July 1887/
????
475

"For The Completion Of The Jambol-Burgas Railway"
Gold Class.

4 May 1890/
4 May 1890

"For The Completion Of The Jambol-Burgas Railway"
Silver Class.

4 May 1890/
4 May 1890

"For The Completion Of The Jambol-Burgas Railway"
Bronze Class.

4 May 1890/
4 May 1890
BorisIIIOfficers10YearsLongServiceCross.jpg

BulgarianLongServiceCrossRibbon.jpg

10 Years Distinguished Service Cross.

1889/
15 September 1946
There are 4 variations of this award a Ferdinand I officer's version, a Boris III officer's version and a Boris III N.C.O. version established on 7 April 1933. The fourth variation is a unique variation issued only to the Tsar Boris III.
BulgarianLongServiceCrossRibbon.jpg

20 Years Distinguished Service Cross.

1889/
15 September 1946
There are 4 variations of this award a Ferdinand I officer's version, a Boris III officer's version and a Boris III N.C.O. version established on 7 April 1933. The fourth variation is a unique variation issued only to the Tsar Boris III.
FerdinandIWeddingRibbon.gif

For The Wedding Of Knyaz Ferdinand And Marie-Louise
(Gold Class).

20 April 1893/
20 April 1893
FerdinandIWeddingRibbon.gif

For The Wedding Of Knyaz Ferdinand And Marie-Louise
(Silver Class).

20 April 1893/
20 April 1893
FerdinandIWeddingRibbon.gif

For The Wedding Of Knyaz Ferdinand And Marie-Louise
(Bronze Class).

20 April 1893/
20 April 1893
25thAnniversaryOfTheAprilUprisingRibbon.gif

For The 25th Anniversary The April Insurrection Of 1876.

1901/
BulgarianLifesavingMedalRibbon.jpg

Lifesaving Medal (1st Class).

28 October 1908/
15 September 1946
Awarded to all Bulgarians for the rescue of people from natural (or other) disasters. There are 2 variations of this award a Ferdinand I version and a Boris III version.
BulgarianLifesavingMedalRibbon.jpg

Lifesaving Medal (2nd Class).

28 October 1908/
15 September 1946
Awarded to all Bulgarians for the rescue of people from natural (or other) disasters. There are 2 variations of this award a Ferdinand I version and a Boris III version.
BulgarianLifesavingMedalRibbon.jpg

Lifesaving Medal (3rd Class).

28 October 1908/
15 September 1946
Awarded to all Bulgarians for the rescue of people from natural (or other) disasters. There are 2 variations of this award a Ferdinand I version and a Boris III version.
1908BulgarianCross.jpg

Bulgarian1909CrossForWomen.jpg

Bulgarian1909CrossRibbon.gif

For The Independence Of Bulgaria 22 September 1908.
За Независимостта На България 22 Септември 1908.
Za Nezavisimostta Na B'lgarija 22 Septembri 1908.

Early 1909/
1909
Awarded to Bulgarians for the event of the proclamation of full Bulgarian independence. Diameter 40 mm, Thickness 1.9 mm. 11,490
RedCrossRibbon.gif

Red Cross Medal (Gold Class).

1939/
15 September 1946
Awarded to everyone who had contributed with "merits to the Red Cross Society or to the cause of charity in general without distinction of sex, ethnic origin or nationality".
RedCrossSilver.jpg

RedCrossRibbon.gif

Red Cross Medal (Silver Class).

15 February 1918/
15 September 1946
Awarded to everyone who had contributed with "merits to the Red Cross Society or to the cause of charity in general without distinction of sex, ethnic origin or nationality".
RedCrossRibbon.gif

Red Cross Medal (Bronze Class).

15 February 1918/
15 September 1946
Awarded to everyone who had contributed with "merits to the Red Cross Society or to the cause of charity in general without distinction of sex, ethnic origin or nationality".
BalkanWarMedal.jpg

BulgarianBalkanWarRibbon.jpg

BulgarianBalkanCivilianRibbon.jpg

BulgarianBalkanFatalityRibbon.jpg

For Participation In The Balkan Wars 1912-1913.
За Участие В Балканските Войни 1912-913 г.
Za Uchastie V Balkanskite Vojni 1912-913 g.

9 December 1933/
After December 1941
Awarded to Bulgarian participants of the 1912-1913 Balkan wars. There are 3 variations in this medal which are indicated by different ribbons (an addition of a white stripe for civilians and an additional black stripe for participants killed in action). c300,000
Bulgarian1915-1918WarMedal.jpg

1915-1918WarVeteranRibbon.jpg

1915-1918CivilianRibbon.gif

1915-1918FatalityRibbon.gif

For Participation In The European War 1915-1918.
За Участие В Европейската Война 1915-918 г.
Za Uchastie V Evropejskata Vojna 1915-918 g.

9 December 1933/
After December 1941
Awarded to Bulgarian and Bulgarian allied force participants of the "1915-1918" war (The Great War). There are 3 variations in this medal which are indicated by different ribbons (an addition of a white stripe for civilians and an additional black stripe for participants killed in action). Diameter 32.1 mm, Thickness 2.7 mm. c249,000 (c50,000 to Bulgarians c199,000 to allied forces.)
Пластина на орден „Св. Александръ“.jpg

PatrioticWarDocument.jpg

For Participation In The Patriotic War 1944-1945.
За Участие В Отечествената Война 1944-1945 г.
Za Uchastie V Otechestvenata Vojna 1944-1945 g.

9 September 1945/
After 1953
Awarded to Bulgarian or allied troops for participation in the war against the Axis from 9 September 1944-9 May 1945. 195,000+

Table Medals

Badge And Ribbon Name(English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date/
Cessation Date
Description Number Awarded

In This Sign Thou Shalt Conquer (Gold Class).
In Hoc Signo Vinces.

1912/
1912
Awarded to Tsar Ferdinand I. 1
InThisSignThouShaltConquer1.jpg

InThisSignThouShaltConquer2.jpg

In This Sign Thou Shalt Conquer (Bronze Class).
In Hoc Signo Vinces.

1912/
1912

Unnoffical Medals

These "medals" were "issued" or "awarded" by various groups and organisations including government departments but were/are not fully recognised as officially awarded medals and were/are not authorised for official wear on official uniforms. That being so this does not mean by any means that these medals were simply just for sale to all comers and were/are still often held in high respect by those who were given them.

Badge And Ribbon Name(English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date Description Number Awarded

Commemoration Of The Death Of H.R.H. Princess Marie Louise.

1899
CommemorationOfTsarBorisI.jpg

1000th Anniversary Of The Birth Of Tsar Boris I.

2 May 1907

Medal For The Coronation Of Tsar Ferdinand I 1908.

22 September 1908
MichailTakevCommemorationMedal.jpg

Commemoration Of The Death Of Michail Takev 1864-1920.

1920 Michail Takev was the Minister Of Interior from 16 January 1908-10 September 1910 and then once again between 17 October-28 November 1918 as part of a Democratic Party government.
AleksandarStambolijskiCommemorationMedal.jpg

Commemoration Of The Death Of Aleksandar Stambolijski.

1923

For The Proclamation Of The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Monument 12 September 1924.

12 September 1924

10th Anniversary Of The Reign Of Boris III
50th Anniversary Of Liberation From The Ottoman Empire
1000th Anniversary Of The Death Of Simeon I.

1928 Diameter 22.2 mm, Thickness 1.3 mm.
BorisIIIWedding.jpg

For The Wedding Of Tsar Boris III And Princess Giovanna Of Savoy.

25 October 1930

People's Republic Of Bulgaria (16th September 1946-10th November 1989)

  • Note: Wider ribbons indicate 3 sided imperial type suspension/Narrower ribbons indicate 4/5 sided soviet type suspension.

With the exile of Tsar Simeon II all Imperial Bulgarian awards were discontinued and banned (Other than those created after the pro-soviet coup of 4 September, 1944), including the wear of such awards. Traces of the Imperial award system were left in the following ways;

  • Until 13 December, 1950 various awards were issued with male and female type ribbons.
  • Until 13 December, 1950 male ribbons were still issued as a trifold, some medals such as the medal for "Participant In The Anti-Fascist Struggle" continued to have a trifold ribbon until the award was discontinued with the collapse of the People's Republic.
  • Two new orders were created with the same name as imperial orders, The Order "(Saint) Cyril And (Saint) Methodius" and the Order "For Bravery".
  • The Order Of Civil Merit ribbon was used for the new Order Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria (which had similar award criteria).

Honourary Titles

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date/
Cessation Date
Description Number Awarded
Герой на НРБ (аверс).jpg

Hero Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
Герой На Народна Република България

15 June 1948/
1990
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for merits in defending Bulgaria and other countries allied to Bulgaria.

Heroes include:
Nikita Khrushchev* Soviet Union (Politician) 1964,
General Ivan Mihajlov (Military/Politician) 6 March 1967,
Tsola Dragoycheva Bulgaria (Politician) 1968,
Todor Zhivkov* Bulgaria (Politician) 1971 and 1981,
Bojan Balgaranov Bulgaria (Politician) 1972,
Leonid Brezhnev*** Soviet Union (Politician) 1973, 1976 and 1981,
Zahari Zahariev Aka Goranov Semenovich* Soviet Union/Bulgaria (Military) 1974.
General Dobri Djurov Bulgaria (Military/Politician) 1976,
Georgi Ivanov* Bulgaria (Cosmonaut) 1979,
Nikolai Rukavishnikov** Soviet Union (Cosmonaut) 1979,
Aleksei Yeliseyev** Soviet Union (Cosmonaut) 1979,
Marshal Of The Soviet Union Fyodor Tolbukhin* Soviet Union (Military) 1981 (Posthumously),
Elisaveta Bagriana Bulgaria (Poet) 1983,
Hristo Prodanov Bulgaria (Mountaineer) 1984 (Posthumously),
Aleksandar Panayotov Aleksandrov* Bulgaria (Cosmonaut) 1988,
Anatoly Solovyev* Soviet Union (Cosmonaut) 1988,
Viktor Savinykh** Soviet Union(Cosmonaut) 1988,
Anton Yugov Bulgaria (Politician) 1989,
Georgi Trajkov Bulgaria (Politician),
Grisha Filipov Bulgaria (Politician),
Karlo Lukanov Bulgaria (Politician),
Peko Takov Bulgaria (Politician),
Sava Ganovski Bulgaria (Politician).
Many of which were also Heroes Of The Soviet Union (Marked with *).

58
Герой на социалистеческия труд (аверс) .jpg

Hero Of (Socialist) Labour.
Герой На (Социалистическия) Труд

15 June 1948 Awarded for exceptional achievements in the sphere of agriculture, science, education, culture, arts as well as for contributing to technical progress. People awarded with this also received the Order Of George Dimitrov. Renamed Hero Of Socialist Labour from Hero Of Labour on 13 December 1950.

Notable Heroes include:
Yuri Gagarin Soviet Union(Cosmonaut) 28 April 1961,
Todor Zhivkov (Politician) 1961,
General Ivan Mihajlov (Military/Politician) 6 March 1962
Gherman Titov Soviet Union (Cosmonaut) 27 September 1962,
Valery Bykovsky Soviet Union (Cosmonaut) 1963,
Tsola Dragoycheva Bulgaria (Politician) 1963,
Valentina Tereshkova Soviet Union (Cosmonaut) 9 September 1963,
Pavel Belyayev Soviet Union (Cosmonaut) 1965,
Alexey Leonov Soviet Union( Cosmonaut) 1965,
Dechko Uzunov Bulgaria (Artist) 1967,
Georgy Beregovoy Soviet Union (Cosmonaut) 1970,
Anton Yugov Bulgaria (Politician) 1984,
Dora Gabe Bulgaria (Poet),
Elisaveta Bagriana Bulgaria (Poet),
Andriyan Nikolayev Soviet Union (Cosmonaut),

1718
Медал на званието „Народен“.gif

People's Honourary Title.
Почетно Звание „Народен“

15 June 1948/
30 December 1987
Awarded to people already awarded with the Honoured title for their exceptional merits in the field of arts, culture, science, education and health. 705
Медал на почетното званието „Заслужил“.jpg

Honoured Honourary Title.
Почетно Звание „Заслужил“.

15 June 1948/
30 December 1987
Awarded to people for their exceptional merits in the field of arts, culture, science, education and health. 4753
Лауреат на Димитровска награда I ст..jpg

Laureate Of The Dimitrov Prize
(1st Class).
Лауреат На Димитровска Награда.

23 May 1949 Awarded to people for their achievements in science, technology and culture. From 1960 onwards this class was the only class awarded as the 2nd and 3rd class awards ceased to be issued after 1959. 724
Лауреат на Димитровска награда II ст..jpg

Laureate Of The Dimitrov Prize
(2nd Class).
Лауреат На Димитровска Награда.

23 May 1949/1959 Awarded to people for their achievements in science, technology and culture.
Лауреат на Димитровска награда III ст..jpg

Laureate Of The Dimitrov Prize
(3rd Class).
Лауреат На Димитровска Награда.

23 May 1949/1959 Awarded to people for their achievements in science, technology and culture.

Hero Of Maternal Glory/
Mother Heroine.

13 December 1950 Awarded to mothers who gave birth to and raised ten or more children. Originally named Hero Of Maternal Glory this award was renamed Mother Heroine on 9 June 1952. 1116
BotevPrize.jpg

Laureate Of The International Botev Prize.
Лауреат На Международна Ботевска Награда.
Laureat Na Mejudunarodna Botevska Nagrada.

24 July 1972/
1986
Awarded to poets for their poetry and contribution to peace, democracy and social progress. Awarded to only four people every five years.
Laureates:
1976: Aleksej Surkov Soviet Union, Nicolás Guillén Cuba,
László Nagy Hungary, Pierre Seghers France
1981: Rafael Alberti Spain, Rasul Gamzatovich Gamzatov Soviet Union,
Ahmad Al-Ahmad Syria, Miroslav Krleža Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
1986: Dmitro Pavlychko Soviet Union, Mario Benedetti Uruguay,
Nil Simeonovich Gilevich Soviet Union, Günter Wallraff West Germany
This award ceased with the collapse of the People's Republic but was reinstated in 1996.
12

Laureate Of The Cyril And Methodius Prize.

29 April 1979 Awarded to prominent Bulgarian and foreign scientists who were specialists in the field of ancient Bulgarian and Slavonic studies.

Pilot-Cosmonaut Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

18 January 1979 Awarded to Bulgarian Cosmonauts, the only two being Georgi Ivanov, 1979 and Aleksandar Panayotov Aleksandrov, 1988. 2
Медал на званието „Заслужил Летец“.jpg

Honoured Pilot.

18 January 1979/
November 1987
Awarded to military and civilian pilots for considerable contributions or long and loyal service. 28

Orders

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date/
Cessation Date
Description Number Awarded
OrderOfLabour1stClass.jpg

OrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

OriginalNarrowOrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

NarrowOrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

National Order Of Labour
Gold Class.
Народен Орден На Труда
Златен Степен.
Naroden Orden Na Truda
Zlaten Stepen.

21 June 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign civilian/state labourers for excellence, outstanding achievements/innovations or excellence in organisation. Also awarded to artists and scientists for long service to the nation. Awarded until 1955 with either a tri-fold ribbon for males or a bow for females, after which the ribbon device was a 5 sided soviet design. The original design was created by D. Uzunov And L. Dimitrov. From 1977 the order was redesigned by B. Kozarevym and M. Markovym to a 5 sided star shape.
OrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

OriginalNarrowOrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

NarrowOrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

National Order Of Labour
Silver Class.
Народен Орден На Труда
Сребърен Степен.
Naroden Orden Na Truda
Sreb'ren Stepen.

21 June 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign civilian/state labourers for excellence, outstanding achievements/innovations or excellence in organisation. Also awarded to artists and scientists for long service to the nation. Awarded until 1955 with either a tri-fold ribbon for males or a bow for females, after which the ribbon device was a 5 sided soviet design. The original design was created by D. Uzunov And L. Dimitrov. From 1977 the order was redesigned by B. Kozarevym and M. Markovym to a 5 sided star shape.
OrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

OriginalNarrowOrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

NarrowOrderOfLabourRibbon.jpg

National Order Of Labour
Bronze Class.
Народен Орден На Труда
Бронзов Степен.
Naroden Orden Na Truda
Bronzov Stepen.

21 June 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign civilian/state labourers for excellence, outstanding achievements/innovations or excellence in organisation. Also awarded to artists and scientists for long service to the nation. Awarded until 1955 with either a tri-fold ribbon for males or a bow for females, after which the ribbon device was a 5 sided soviet design. The original design was created by D. Uzunov And L. Dimitrov. From 1977 the order was redesigned by B. Kozarev and M. Markov to a 5 sided star shape.
OrderOfThe9thSeptember19441stClassCivilian.jpg

Order99441Ribbon.jpg

Order Of The 9th September 1944
1st Class.
Орден „9 Септември 1944“ I Степен.
Order "9 Septembri 1944" I Stepen.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who took part in the armed insurrection of 9 September 1944 and later to participants in the founding and consolidating of the people's authority. There are 2 variations of this award for civilians and for military personnel. The military variation has additional swords. Worn on a plain red neck ribbon until 1958 and from then on worn on a 5 sided soviet style suspension on the chest. Designed by B. Angelushev.

Order99442Ribbon.jpg

Order Of The 9th September 1944
2nd Class.
Орден „9 Септември 1944“ II Степен.
Order "9 Septembri 1944" II Stepen.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who took part in the armed insurrection of 9 September 1944 and later to participants in the founding and consolidating of the people's authority. There are 2 variations of this award for civilians and for military personnel. The military variation has additional swords. Worn as a screw-back badge until 1958 and from then on worn on a 5 sided soviet style suspension. Designed by B. Angelushev.
OrderOfThe9thSeptember19443rdClassCivilian.jpg

Order99443Ribbon.jpg

Order Of The 9th September 1944
3rd Class.
Орден „9 Септември 1944“ III Степен.
Order "9 Septembri 1944" III Stepen.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who took part in the armed insurrection of 9 September 1944 and later to participants in the founding and consolidating of the people's authority. There are 2 variations of this award for civilians and for military personnel. The military variation has additional swords. Worn as a screw-back badge until 1958 and from then on worn on a 5 sided soviet style suspension. Designed by B. Angelushev.
OrderOfPeople'sLiberty1stClassRibbon.gif

Order Of People's Liberty
1st Class.
Орден „Народная Свобода 1941-1944 гг“ I Степен.
Orden "Narodnaja Svoboda 1941-1944 gg" I Stepen.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for the participation in the revolutionary fight of Bulgarian people. Worn as a screw-back badge until 1960 and from then on worn on a 5 sided soviet style suspension. There are 4 variations of this award's construction, A five piece breast star (1945-1949), A four piece breast star (1949-1958), A four piece on a ribbon (1958-c1970) and a single piece on a ribbon (c1970 onwards). Designed by B. Angelushev.
OrderOfPeople'sLiberty2ndClassRibbon.jpg

Order Of People's Liberty
2nd Class.
Орден „Народная Свобода 1941-1944 гг“ II Степен.
Orden "Narodnaja Svoboda 1941-1944 gg" II Stepen.

9 September 1945/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for the participation in the revolutionary fight of Bulgarian people. Worn as a screw-back badge until 1960 and from then on worn on a 5 sided soviet style suspension. There are 4 variations of this award's construction, A five piece breast star (1945-1949), A four piece breast star (1949-1958), A four piece on a ribbon (1958-c1970) and a single piece on a ribbon (c1970 onwards). Designed by B. Angelushev.
Орден „Народна Република България“ I ст..jpg
Пластина на орден „Народна Република България“.gif

Order Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria
1st Class.
Орден „Народна Република България“ I Степен.
Orden "Naroda Republika B'lgarija" I Stepen.

18 June 1947/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarians and foreign citizens for success and merits in different spheres of activity as a universal reward.
Орден „Народна Република България“ II ст..jpg
OrderOfThePeople'sRepublicOfBulgariaRibbon.jpg

Order Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria
2nd Class.
Орден „Народна Република България“ II Степен.
Orden "Naroda Republika B'lgarija" II Stepen.

18 June 1947/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarians and foreign citizens for success and merits in different spheres of activity as a universal reward.
Орден „Народна Република България“ III ст..jpg
OrderOfThePeople'sRepublicOfBulgariaRibbon.jpg

Order Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria
3rd Class.
Орден „Народна Република България“ III Степен.
Orden "Naroda Republika B'lgarija" III Stepen.

18 June 1947/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarians and foreign citizens for success and merits in different spheres of activity as a universal reward.
OrderOfThePeople'sRepublicOfBulgariaRibbon.jpg

Order Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria
4th Class.
Орден „Народна Република България“ IV Степен.
Orden "Naroda Republika B'lgarija" IV Stepen.

18 June 1947/
13 December 1950
Awarded to Bulgarians and foreign citizens for success and merits in different spheres of activity as a universal reward. 0
OrderOfThePeople'sRepublicOfBulgariaRibbon.jpg

Order Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria
5th Class.
Орден „Народна Република България“ V Степен.
Orden "Naroda Republika B'lgarija" V Stepen.

18 June 1947/
13 December 1950
Awarded to Bulgarians and foreign citizens for success and merits in different spheres of activity as a universal reward. 0
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

Order Of Bravery
1st Class.
Орден „За Храброст“ I Степен.
Orden "Za Hrabrost" I Stepen.

15 June 1948/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Military Personnel and Civilians for bravery and courage in battle or for strengthening the integrity of the country and public safety. Foreign soldiers of allied armies could also be awarded this order for participation in joint combat operations. c10
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

Order Of Bravery
2nd Class.
Орден „За Храброст“ II Степен.
Orden "Za Hrabrost" II Stepen.

15 June 1948/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Military Personnel and Civilians for bravery and courage in battle or for strengthening the integrity of the country and public safety. Foreign soldiers of allied armies could also be awarded this order for participation in joint combat operations. 0
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

Order Of Bravery
3rd Class.
Орден „За Храброст“ III Степен.
Orden "Za Hrabrost" III Stepen.

15 June 1948/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Military Personnel and Civilians for bravery and courage in battle or for strengthening the integrity of the country and public safety. Foreign soldiers of allied armies could also be awarded this order for participation in joint combat operations. There are two variations of this award, originally one which is numbered and then issued later, one which is unnumbered. 50
Орден Георги Димитров.jpg

OrderOfGeorgiDimitrovRibbon.jpg

Order Of Georgi Dimitrov.
Орден „Георги Димитров“.
Orden "Georgi Dimitrov".

17 June 1950/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for exceptional merit. This order was also automatically awarded upon recipients of The Hero Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria and The Hero Of Socialist Labour titles. Originally designed by K. Lazarov and modified by O. Odabashyan. Awarded to General Ivan Mihajlov six times in 1955, 1957, 1959, 1962, 1967 and 1972. c4,000
BulgarianOrderOfTheRedBanner.jpg

OrderOfTheRedBannerRibbon.jpg

Order Of The Red Banner.
Орден „Червене Знаме“.
Orden "Chervene Zname".

13 December 1950/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and Allied military personnel for distinction in battle or for merit in the strengthening of power and structure of the Bulgarian People's Army. There are two variations of this award, originally one which is numbered and then issued later, one which is unnumbered. Designed by O. Odabashyan.
BulgarianOrderOfTheRedBannerOfLabour.jpg

OrderOfTheRedBannerOfLabour ribbon.jpg

Order Of The Red Banner Of Labour.
Орден „Червене Знаме На Труда".
Orden "Chervene Zname Na Truda".

13 December 1950/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and Foreign civilians and associations for success in the development of the national economy or the state or public/scientific/cultural services of the country. There are five variations of this award, The first (c1950) is numbered and of multi-part construction with a nut and an angular recess in the reverse, The second (c1950-1969) is numbered and of a multi-part construction with a nut and a circular recess in the reverse, The third (c1970) is unnumbered a has a small nipple on the reverse, The fourth variation (c1970-1974) is unnumbered of a single part construction with a smooth reverse on a large ribbon and the fifth variation (c1974-1991) is unnumbered with a smooth reverse and on a small ribbon.
Орден „Кирил и Методий“ I ст..jpg

OrderOfSaintCyrilAndSaintMethodiusRibbon.jpg

Order Of Cyril And Methodius
1st Class.
Орден „Кирил И Методий“ I Степен.
Orden "Kiril I Metodij" I Stepen.

13 December 1950/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens and organizations for merit in sciences/culture/information. There are two variations of this award, originally one which is numbered and then issued later, one which is unnumbered. Designed by P. Doychinov and O. Odabashja.
Орден „Кирил и Методий“ II ст..jpg

OrderOfSaintCyrilAndSaintMethodiusRibbon.jpg

Order Of Cyril And Methodius
2nd Class.
Орден „Кирил И Методий“ II Степен.
Orden "Kiril I Metodij" II Stepen.

13 December 1950/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens and organizations for merit in sciences/culture/information. There are two variations of this award, originally one which is numbered and then issued later, one which is unnumbered. Designed by P. Doychinov and O. Odabashja.
Орден „Кирил и Методий“ III ст..jpg

OrderOfSaintCyrilAndSaintMethodiusRibbon.jpg

Order Of Cyril And Methodius
3rd Class.
Орден „Кирил И Методий“ III Степен.
Orden "Kiril I Metodij" III Stepen.

13 December 1950/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens and organizations for merit in sciences/culture/information. There are two variations of this award, originally one which is numbered and then issued later, one which is unnumbered. Designed by P. Doychinov and O. Odabashja.
OrderOfMaternalGlory1stClass.jpg

Order Of Maternal Glory
1st Class.

13 December 1950/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian mothers for raising 8 or 9 children. Three variations of this award exist, One on a ribbon which is numbered, latterly one on a ribbon which is unnumbered and then finally one on a metal suspension.

Order Of Maternal Glory
2nd Class.

13 December 1950/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian mothers for raising 6 or 7 children. Three variations of this award exist, One on a ribbon which is numbered, latterly one on a ribbon which is unnumbered and then finally one on a metal suspension.

Order Of Maternal Glory
3rd Class.

13 December 1950/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian mothers for raising 4 or 5 children. Three variations of this award exist, One on a ribbon which is numbered, latterly one on a ribbon which is unnumbered and then finally one on a metal suspension.
RoseI.jpg

Order Of The Rose
1st Class.

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to female foreigners for merit in the establishing friendly international relationships with The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

Order Of The Rose
2nd Class.

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to female foreigners for merit in the establishing friendly international relationships with The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
Stara-planina.jpg

Grand Cross Of The Order Of The Balkan Mountains.
Орден „Стара Планина".
Orden "Stara Planina".

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to statesmen/ministers/diplomats/civil servants and foreign citizens for the establishment and strengthening of friendly international relations with The People's Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded for Military relationships the award was presented with swords. Designed by V. Starchev and K. Damjanov.

Order Of The Balkan Mountains
1st Class.
Орден „Стара Планина".
Orden "Stara Planina".

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to statesmen/ministers/diplomats/civil servants and foreign citizens for the establishment and strengthening of friendly international relations with The People's Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded for Military relationships the award was presented with swords. Designed by V. Starchev and K. Damjanov.

Order Of The Balkan Mountains
2nd Class.
Орден „Стара Планина".
Orden "Stara Planina".

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to statesmen/ministers/diplomats/civil servants and foreign citizens for the establishment and strengthening of friendly international relations with The People's Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded for Military relationships the award was presented with swords. Designed by V. Starchev and K. Damjanov.
MilitaryOrderOfTheMadarHorseman1stClass.jpg

CivilianOrderOfTheMadarHorseman1stClassMiniature.jpg

Order Of The Madar Horseman
1st Class.

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to foreign citizens for merit in establishment and strengthening of international relationships with The People's Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded to military personnel the order came with swords. Designed by D. Uzunov.

Order Of The Madar Horseman
2nd Class.

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to foreign citizens for merit in establishment and strengthening of international relationships with The People's Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded to military personnel the order came with swords. Designed by D. Uzunov.
OrderOfCivilValourAndMeritRibbon.gif

Order Of Civil Valour And Merit
1st Class.

4 August 1966/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for courage in lifesaving/protection of state property or in crime fighting. Designed by V. Starchev and K. Damyanov.
OrderOfCivilValourAndMeritRibbon.gif

Order Of Civil Valour And Merit
2nd Class.

4 August 1966/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for courage in lifesaving/protection of state property or in crime fighting. Designed by V. Starchev and K. Damyanov.
OrderOfCivilValourAndMeritRibbon.gif

Order Of Civil Valour And Merit
3rd Class.

4 August 1966/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for courage in lifesaving/protection of state property or in crime fighting. Designed by V. Starchev and K. Damyanov.
OrderOfMilitaryValourAndMeritRibbon.jpg

Order Of Military Valour And Merit
1st Class.

28 May 1974/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Military personnel, Workers of the Ministry Of Defence and reservists for long distinguished and honourable service or for merit in strengthening of the power of armed forces and national security or for merit in combat training. Designed by B. Kozarev and M. Markov.
OrderOfMilitaryValourAndMeritRibbon.jpg

Order Of Military Valour And Merit
2nd Class.

28 May 1974/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Military personnel, Workers of the Ministry Of Defence and reservists for long distinguished and honourable service or for merit in strengthening of the power of armed forces and national security or for merit in combat training. Designed by B. Kozarev and M. Markov.
OrderOfLabourGloryRibbon.gif

Order Of Labour Glory
1st Class.

28 May 1974/
5 April 1991
Awarded to industrial/construction/transport/agricultural labourers for selfless long-term work. Designed by L. Prakhov and P. Braykov.
OrderOfLabourGloryRibbon.gif

Order Of Labour Glory
2nd Class.

28 May 1974/
5 April 1991
Awarded to industrial/construction/transport/agricultural labourers for selfless long-term work. Designed by L. Prakhov and P. Braykov.
OrderOfLabourGloryRibbon.gif

Order Of Labour Glory
3rd Class.

28 May 1974/
5 April 1991
Awarded to industrial/construction/transport/agricultural labourers for selfless long-term work. Designed by L. Prakhov and P. Braykov.
OrderOf13CenturiesOfBulgariaSash.jpg

Order13CenturiesMiniature.jpg

Order Of 13 Centuries Of Bulgaria.
Орден „13 Века България".
Orden "13 Veka B'lgarija".

16 October 1981/
5 April 1991
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for the exceptionally great services to The People's Republic Of Bulgaria. Designed by V. Starchev and M. Markov.
Notable recipients include: Todor Zhivkov, Grisha Filipov, Georgi Atanasov, Georgi Djuagarov, Pencho Kubadiski, Georgi Jordanov, Dimitr Stanischev, Emil Hristov, Petr Djulgerov, Grigor Stoichkov, Aleksi Ivanov, Vasil Vasilev, Hristina Stoeva, Ivan Panev, Radoj Popivanov, Patriarch Maxim, Bogomil Rajnov, Nicolai Ghiaurov, Nikola Strandjuanski and Vera Mutafchieva.
110

Medals

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date/
Cessation Date
Description Number Awarded
ForParticipationInThePatrioticWar.jpg

PatrioticWarRibbon.jpg

ForFatalParticipationInThePatrioticWar.jpg

PatrioticWarFatalityRibbon.jpg

Patriotic War 1944-1945.
Отечествена Война 1944-1945 г.
Otechestvena Bojna 1944-1945 g.

9 September 1945/
Awarded to Bulgarian or allied troops for participation in the war against the Axis from 9 September 1944 - 9 May 1945. Kept from before the establishment of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria but with a changed ribbon and a new ribbon designed for those who had lost their life. Diameter 32.7 mm, Thickness 3 mm. 195,000+
1923-1948UprisingBronze.jpg

ParticipantIn1923UprisingRibbon.jpg

For Participation In The September Uprising 1923
Bronze Class.
За Участие В Септемврийското Въстание 1923г Бронзов Степен.
Za Uchastie V Septemvrijscoto Vystanie 1923g Bronzov Stepen.

15 September 1948/
31 December 1950
Awarded to all surviving anti-fascist participants in the June and September 1923 Bulgarian uprisings on the event of the 25th anniversary. 2,450+
1923-1948UprisingSilver.jpg

ParticipantIn1923UprisingRibbon.jpg

For Participation In The September Uprising 1923
Silver Class.
За Участие В Септемврийското Въстание 1923г.
Сребърен Степен.
Za Uchastie V Septemvrijscoto Vystanie 1923g.
Sreb'ren Stepen.

15 September 1948/
31 December 1950
Awarded to all surviving anti-fascist participants in the June and September 1923 Bulgarian uprisings on the event of the 25th anniversary. 10,040
ParticipantInTheAnti-FascistStruggle.jpg

ParticipantOfTheAntiFascistStruggle.jpg

For Participation In The Anti-Fascist Struggle.
За Участие В Антифашистката Борба.
Za Uchastie V Antifashistcata Borba.

13 December 1950/
November, 1989
Awarded to participants in struggle against fascism and capitalism. The last Bulgarian award instituted with a triangular suspension ribbon. 18,100+
BulgarianMilitaryMerit.jpg

BulgarianCombatMeritsRibbon.jpg

For Military Merit.
За Боева Заслуга.
Za Boeva Zasluga.

13 December 1950/
November, 1989
Awarded to military personnel of the Armed Forces Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria/Ministry Of Internal Affairs for their skills and bravery in battle or for guarding the national borders/independence and security of the country. Originally this medal was issued with an Order document with the word Order crossed out and replaced with Medal, by 1953 Medal documents were being issued. This medal was awarded mainly in the 1951-1957 period. Variation 1, Diameter 33 mm, Thickness 2.4 mm. Variation 2, Diameter 33 mm, Thickness 2.7 mm. 80,000+
BulgarianForLabourDistinction.jpg

BulgarianForLabourDistinctionRibbon.jpg

For Labour Distinction.
За Трудово Отличие.
Za Trudovo Otlichie.

13 December 1950/
November, 1989
Awarded to labourers for their achievements in industrial and social life of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria. Variation 1, Diameter 33 mm, Thickness 1.9 mm. Variation 2, Diameter 33 mm, Thickness 2.4 mm.

For Motherhood
1st Class.
За Майчинство I Степен.
Za Majchihstvo I Stepen.

13 December 1950/
November, 1989
Awarded to Bulgarian mothers for birthing and raising 4 children.

For Motherhood
2nd Class.
За Майчинство II Степен.
Za Majchihstvo II Stepen.

13 December 1950/
November, 1989
Awarded to Bulgarian mothers for birthing and raising 3 children.
20YearsServiceInBulgarianPeople'sArmy.jpg

Bulgarian20YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

For Honourable Service To The Armed Forces Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria 1st Class.
За Безупречна Служба Въоръжени Сили НРБ I Степен.
Za Bezuprechna Sluzhba Byoryzheni Sili NRB I Stepen.

18 July 1959/
November, 1989
Awarded to personnel of the armed forces of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 20 years long and faithful service.
15YearsServiceInBulgarianPeople'sArmy.jpg

Bulgarian15YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

For Honourable Service To The Armed Forces Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria 2nd Class.
За Безупречна Служба Въоръжени Сили НРБ II Степен.
Za Bezuprechna Sluzhba Byoryzheni Sili NRB II Stepen.

18 July 1959/
November, 1989
Awarded to personnel of the armed forces of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 15 years long and faithful service.
10YearsServiceInBulgarianPeople'sArmy.jpg

Bulgarian10YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

For Honourable Service To The Armed Forces Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria 3rd Class.
За Безупречна Служба Въоръжени Сили НРБ III Степен.
Za Bezuprechna Sluzhba Byoryzheni Sili NRB III Stepen.

18 July 1959/
November, 1989
Awarded to personnel of the armed forces of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 10 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian20YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

For Faithful Honourable Service And Long Service Years In Bodies Of The Ministry Of Internal Affairs 1st Class.
За Добросъвестна Безупречна Служба И Прослужени Години В Органите На Министерстерсвото На Вътрешните Работи I Степен.
Za Dobrosyvestna Bezupechna Sluzhba I Prosluzheni Godini V Organite Na Ministerstersvoto Na Bytreshnite Raboti I Stepen.

27 August 1960/
November, 1989
Awarded to personnel of the Ministry Of Interior Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 20 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian15YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

For Faithful Honourable Service And Long Service Years In Bodies Of The Ministry Of Internal Affairs 2nd Class.
За Добросъвестна Безупречна Служба И Прослужени Години В Органите На Министерстерсвото На Вътрешните Работи II Степен.
Za Dobrosyvestna Bezupechna Sluzhba I Prosluzheni Godini V Organite Na Ministerstersvoto Na Bytreshnite Raboti II Stepen.

27 August 1960/
November, 1989
Awarded to personnel of the Ministry Of Interior Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 15 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian10YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

For Faithful Honourable Service And Long Service Years In Bodies Of The Ministry Of Internal Affairs 3rd Class.
За Добросъвестна Безупречна Служба И Прослужени Години В Органите На Министерстерсвото На Вътрешните Работи III Степен.
Za Dobrosyvestna Bezupechna Sluzhba I Prosluzheni Godini V Organite Na Ministerstersvoto Na Bytreshnite Raboti III Stepen.

27 August 1960/
November, 1989
Awarded to personnel of the Ministry Of Interior Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 10 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian10YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

10 Years Service To The Fire Services Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

27 August 1960/
Awarded to personnel of the fire services of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 10 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian15YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

15 Years Service To The Fire Services Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

27 August 1960/
Awarded to personnel of the fire services of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 15 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian20YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

20 Years Service To The Fire Services Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

27 August 1960/ Awarded to personnel of the fire services of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 20 years long and faithful service.
20thAnniversaryRibbon.jpg

20th Anniversary Of The Bulgarian People's Army.
20 Години БНА.
20 Godini BNA.

22 August 1964/ Awarded to personnel of the Bulgarian People's Army with at least 20 years military service and had contributed to the consolidation and enhancement of its fighting efficiency.
20thAnniversaryRibbon.jpg

20 Years Of The Organs Of The Ministry Of Interior.
20 Г. Органи На МВР.
20 G. Organi Na MVR.

22 August 1964/ Awarded to personnel of the Ministry Of Interior Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria also to ex-personnel who had faithfully served at least 10 years. 12,000+
20thAnniversaryRibbon.jpg

20th Anniversary Of The Committee Of State Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
20 Години КДС.
20 Godini KDS.

22 August 1964/ Awarded to personnel of the Committee Of State with at least 20 years military service and had contributed to the consolidation and enhancement of its efficiency.
Bulgarian10YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

10 Years Service To The Committee Of State Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

1965/1969 Awarded to personnel of the Committee Of State Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 10 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian15YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

15 Years Service To The Committee Of State Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

1965/1969 Awarded to personnel of the Committee Of State Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 15 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian20YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

20 Years Service To The Committee Of State Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

1965/1969 Awarded to personnel of the Committee Of State Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 20 years long and faithful service.
ForMeritToTheBulgarianPeople'sArmyRibbon.jpg

ForMeritInTheBulgarianPeople'sArmyRibbon.jpg

For Merit To The Bulgarian People's Army.
За Заслуги Към БНА.
Za Zaslugi K'm BNA.

23 December 1965/
November 1989
Awarded to personnel of the Bulgarian People's Army for merit in stabilising the defence of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria and to civilians for expressing outstanding patriotism. Variation 1, Diameter 33 mm, Thickness (Rim) 2.8 mm, (Centre) 4.9 mm. Variation 2, Diameter 33.1 mm, Thickness (Rim) 2.5 mm, (Centre) 4.1 mm.
Bulgarian25thAnniversaryRibbon.jpg

25th Anniversary Of The Bulgarian People's Army.
25 Години БНА.
25 Godini BNA.

11 July 1968/ Awarded to personnel of the Bulgarian People's Army at least 10 years military service and also to foreign citizens for merits to the Bulgarian People's Army.
Bulgarian25thAnniversaryRibbon.jpg

25th Anniversary Of The Organs Of The Ministry Of Interior.
25 Г. Органи На МВР.
25 G. Organi Na MVR.

30 July 1968/ Awarded to personnel of the Ministry Of Interior Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 10 years faithful service/Merits against crime and also to foreign citizens for merits to the Ministry Of Interior Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria. 20,000+
MeritToSecurityAndPublicOrderRibbon.gif

For Merit To Security And Public Order.
За Заслуги За Сигурността И Обществения Ред.
Za Zaslugi Za Sigurnostta I Obshtestvenija Red.

10 April 1969/ Awarded to Bulgarian or foreign citizens who had assisted to the bodies of the Ministry Of Interior in their combat with foreign or home enemies of the country or people disturbing public order.
Bulgarian10YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

10 Years Service To The Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

5 June 1969/ Awarded to personnel of the Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 10 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian15YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

15 Years Service To The Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

5 June 1969/ Awarded to personnel of the Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 10 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian20YearsLongServiceRibbon.jpg

20 Years Service To The Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

5 June 1969/ Awarded to personnel of the Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 10 years long and faithful service.
Bulgarian25YearsOfPeople'sRuleRibbon.jpg

25th Anniversary Of People's Rule.
25 Години Народна Власт.
25 Godini Narodna Vlast.

10 July 1969/ Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who took an active participation in the fight against the fascism and capitalism. Also awarded for merits in building the socialism in the People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
Bulgarian25thAnniversaryRibbon.jpg

25th Anniversary Of Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

12 August 1969/ Awarded to personnel of the Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for at least 10 years faithful service or for merits in the Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

90th Anniversary Of The Birth Of Georgi Dimitrov.

12 June 1972/ Awarded to national and international communist movement leaders/politicians.
50thAnniversaryOfUprisingRibbon.jpg

50th Anniversary Of The People's Anti-Fascist Uprising 1923.

10 August 1973/
Awarded to all surviving anti-fascist participants in the June and September 1923 Bulgarian uprisings on the event of the 50th anniversary.
30thAnniversaryOfTheBulgarianPeople'sArmy.jpg

30th Anniversary Of The Bulgarian People's Army.
30 Години БНА.
30 Godini BNA.

22 May 1974/
Awarded to personnel of the Bulgarian People's Army at least 10 years military service and also to foreign citizens for merits to the Bulgarian People's Army.
30thMVRRibbon.jpg

30th Anniversary Of The Ministry Of Interior.
30 Години МВР.
30 Godini MVR.

22 May 1974/
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who cooperated with agencies of the Ministry Of Interior and personnel of the Ministry Of Interior. 30,000+
30thAnniversaryOfConstructionTroops.jpg

30th Anniversary Of The Construction Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
30 Години Строителин Войски На НРБ.
30 Godini Stroitelin Vojski Na NRB.

22 May 1974/
Awarded to all personnel of the Construction Troops of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria for aiding development with at least 15 years long service.
InternationalBrigadesRibbon.jpg

International Brigades In Spain 1936-1939.
Интернационални Бригади В Испания 1936-1939 г.
Internatsionalni Brigadi V Ispanija 1936-1939 g.

22 May 1974/
Awarded to all living veterans of the Bulgarian communist brigades which served in the Spanish Civil War 1936-1939. All award documents of this medal are numbered 462. Beware of Spanish made fakes of this award with different loops/different alloys/poor quality. 462
BulgarianVeteranOfLabourRibbon.gif

Veteran Of Labour.

22 May 1974/
Awarded to Bulgarians for long, high-productive and faithful work in all fields of public life.
KlimentOkhridskiRibbon.gif

Kliment Ohridski Medal.

22 May 1974/
Awarded to Bulgarian citizens and organizations for their merits and success in all fields of science, education and culture.
DistinctionBPARibbon.gif

For Distinction In The Bulgarian People’s Army.

22 May 1974/
Awarded to youth officers and sergeants of the Bulgarian People's Army for merits in serving the force and successful education and preparation of new recruits.
DistinctionConstructionTroopsRibbon.gif

For Distinction In The Construction Troops Of The People’s Republic Of Bulgaria.

22 May 1974/
Awarded to personnel of Construction Troops who aided in the development of the corps with at least 15 years service.
DistinctionMinistryTransport.gif

For Distinction In The Railway Troops Of The People’s Republic Of Bulgaria.

22 May 1974/
8 May 1978
Awarded to officers and sergeants of the Railway Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for achievements in their career and education and in educating personnel.
MeritConstructionTroopsRibbon.gif

For Merit In The Construction Troops Of The People’s Republic Of Bulgaria.

22 May 1974/
Awarded to personnel of the Construction Troops for their merits for development and education of the personnel of the Construction Troops.
DistinctionMinistryOfTransport.gif

For Merit In The Railway Troops Of The People’s Republic Of Bulgaria.

22 May 1974/
8 May 1978
Awarded to personnel of the Railway Troops Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for merits.
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

30th Anniversary Of The Socialist Revolution In Bulgaria.

2 September 1974/ Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who took an active participation in the fight against the fascism and capitalism.
MilitaryConsolidationRibbon.gif

For Consolidation Of Military Friendship.

4 March 1975/ Awarded to officers and sergeants of the military forces of the Warsaw Pact member nations. This medal was originally issued in very small numbers with all the flags of the Warsaw Pact nations enamelled but due to the difficulty and cost of production this medal was mainly issued without enamelling.
30thAnniversaryOfVictoryOverGermanyRibbon.jpg

30th Anniversary Of Victory Over Fascist Germany.
30 Години От Победата Над Фашистка Германия.
30 Godini Ot Pobedara Nad Faschistka Germanija.

6 March 1975/ Awarded to Bulgarians who took participation in the anti-fascist struggle and revolution of 9 September 1944, relatives to the killed participators and serving personnel of the Bulgarian People's Army. 465,000+
100thAnniversaryOfAprilUprisingRibbon.gif

100th Anniversary Of The April Uprising 1876.

17 January 1976/ Awarded to Bulgarians and foreigners in celebration of the April Uprising of 1876. 44 Bulgarian villages were also issued with a larger table medal for their participation in the Uprising.
25thAnniversaryOfCivilDefenceRibbon.jpg

25th Anniversary Of Civil Defence Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
30 Години Гражданска Отбрана На Народна Репувлика България
30 Godini Grajudanska Otbrana Na Naroda Republika B'lgarija.

23 April 1976/ Awarded to Bulgarians who took participation in the construction of the National Civil Defence.
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

For Merit In The Civil Defence Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria
(1st Class).

23 April 1976/ Awarded to Bulgarians or foreigners for merits in the construction of the National Civil Defence or for contributing to the training/skill/organisation of National Civil Defence.
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

For Merit In The Civil Defence Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria
(2nd Class).

23 April 1976/ Awarded to Bulgarians or foreigners for merits in the construction of the National Civil Defence or for contributing to the training/skill/organisation of National Civil Defence.
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

For Merit In The Civil Defence Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria
(3rd Class).

23 April 1976/ Awarded to Bulgarians or foreigners for merits in the construction of the National Civil Defence or for contributing to the training/skill/organisation of National Civil Defence.
MeritFrontierGuardsRibbon.gif

For Merit In The Sphere Of Security Of The Border.

26 May 1976/ Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for their active co-operation to the border guards and to border guards for bravery and long service.
100thAnniversayOfRedCrossRibbon.gif

100th Anniversary Of The Bulgarian Red Cross.

16 November 1977/ Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens and organizations for their contribution to the Bulgarian Red Cross. c1000
USSRPRBFriendshipRibbon.gif

For Peace And Friendship Between The U.S.S.R. And The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

20 December 1977/ Awarded to foreign citizens and organisations that had contributed to establishing, developing and stabilising the peace and friendship between the U.S.S.R. and the People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
PRBFriendshipRibbon.gif

For Friendship And Co-Operation With The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

20 December 1977/ Awarded to foreign citizens and organisations that had contributed to establishing, developing and stabilising the peace and friendship with the People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
100thAnniversaryOfLiberationRibbon.jpg

100th Anniversary Of Liberation From Ottoman Rule 3-3-1878 - 3-3-1978.
100 Години От Освобождението На България От Османско Робство 3. III 1878 - 3. III 1978.
100 Godini Ot Osvobojudenieto Na B'lgarija Ot Osmansko Robstvo 3. III 1878 - 3. III 1978.

22 February 1978/ Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens and organisations for their activity in organising the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. Key Bulgarian towns and villages were also issued with a larger table medal.
DistinctionMinistryTransport.gif

For Distinction In The Troops Of The Ministry Of Transport Of The People’s Republic Of Bulgaria.

8 May 1978/
Awarded to officers and sergeants of the troops of The Ministry Of Transport Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for achievements in their career and education and in educating personnel. This medal is exactly the same in design as the For Distinction In The Railway Troops Of The People’s Republic Of Bulgaria award it replaced when the department changed its name.
DistinctionMinistryOfTransport.gif

For Merit In The Troops Of The Ministry Of Transport Of The People’s Republic Of Bulgaria.

8 May 1978/
Awarded to personnel of the troops Of The Ministry Of Transport Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria for merits. This medal is exactly the same in design as the For Merit In The Railway Troops Of The People’s Republic Of Bulgaria award it replaced when the department changed its name.
100thAnniversaryOfBulgarianCommunicationsRibbon.gif

100th Anniversary Of Bulgarian Communications.

8 May 1978/
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens and organisations for their contribution in development of communication in Bulgaria.
100thAnniversaryOfBulgarianCustomHouses.jpg

100thAnniversaryOfBulgarianCustomHousesRibbon.gif

100th Anniversary Of Bulgarian Customs.
100 Години Български Митници.
100 Godini B'lgarski Mitnitsi.

29 January 1979/
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens and organisations for their contribution in development of custom houses in Bulgaria.
100thAnniversaryOfSofia.jpg

100th Anniversary Of Sofia As Capital Of Bulgaria.
Сто Години София Столица На България.
Sto Godini Sofija Stolitsa Na B'lgarija.

2 April 1979/
Awarded to Bulgarian citizens and organisations who contributed to the development of Sofia and to foreign citizens for their achievements in establishing co-operation and brotherhood between Bulgaria and Sofia with other nations and cities.
100thAnniversaryOfBulgarianHealthCareRibbon.gif

100th Anniversary Of The Bulgarian State Health Care Service.

22 May 1979/
Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign scientists and organisations for their contribution in strengthening and developing the health system of the People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
BulgariaNationalRibbon.jpg

100th Anniversary Of Bulgarian Geology.

21 August 1980/
Awarded to Bulgarian citizens and organisations for contributions to the development of geology in Bulgaria and also to foreign citizens for their research and development of Bulgarian geology.
BulgariaNationalRibbon.jpg

OrderOfCivilValourAndMeritRibbon.gif

1300thAnniversaryOfBulgarianForeigners.jpg

1300th Anniversary Of Bulgaria.
1300 Години България.
1300 Godini B'lgarija.

16 October 1981/
Awarded to famous people, organisations and institutes in the country and also to foreigners who had promoted Bulgaria.
100th anniversary of the birth of Georgi Dimitrov medal ribbon.jpg

100th Anniversary Of The Birth Of Georgi Dimitrov.
100 Години От Рождението На Георги Димитров.
100 Godini Ot Rojudehnieto Na Georgi Dimitrov.

25 May 1982/ Awarded to national and international communist movement leaders/politicians.
ForMeritD.O.T..gif

For Merit In The Working People's Volunteer Detachments Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

4 April 1984/ Awarded to volunteers for bravery and self-sacrifice in securing public order/national borders/safety of road traffic.
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

25th Anniversary Of The Working People's Volunteer Detachments Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

13 April 1984/ Awarded to volunteers for reinforcing the strength of the Working People's Volunteer Detachments Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.
40thAnniversaryOfSocialistBulgaria.jpg

40th Anniversary Of Socialist Bulgaria.
40 Години Социалистическа България.
40 Godini Sotsialisticheska B'lgarija.

27 July 1984/ Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who took an active participation in the fight against the fascism and capitalism.
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

80th Anniversary Of The Revolutionary Trade Union Movement In Bulgaria.
80 Години Революцинно Профсъюзно Движение В България.
80 Godini Rebolyuotsinno Profs'yuzno Drijuenie V B'lgarija.

8 October 1984/ Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens who contributed to development of the Bulgarian professional unions.
40thAnniversayOfVictoryOverFascismRibbon.jpg

40th Anniversary Of Victory Over Hitler's Fascism.
40 Години От Победата Над Хитлерофашизма.
40 Godini Nad Hitlerofaschizma.

31 January 1985/ Awarded to serving Bulgarian military personnel along with living veterans of the war against Germany.
BulgariaNationalRibbon.jpg

100th Anniversary Of Bulgarian State Railways.

1988/
OrderOfBraveryRibbon.jpg

45th Anniversary Of The Ministry Of Interior Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria.

1989/ Awarded to Bulgarian and foreign citizens for their co-operation with the Ministry Of Interior Of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria and to current and former personnel for their contributions to the ministry.

Republic Of Bulgaria (10th November 1989-29th May 2003)

With the collapse of The People's Republic Of Bulgaria their award system was discontinued (Officially on 5 April, 1991) with the exception of orders bestowed on foreign nationals. All communist and imperial awards were allowed to be worn. The soviet style 5 sided suspension was dropped, with the exception of the medal 50th Anniversary Of Victory Over Hitler's Fascism, which had a 5 sided enamel suspension and the Imperial tradition of different ribbons for different sexes were reintroduced for certain awards. Between 5 April, 1991 and the introduction of The Order For Loyal Service Under The Banner in 1994 there were no official state awards for Bulgarian citizens. As of 29 May, 2003 a totally new award system was introduced and as of the 9th June, 2003 the previous system was officially abolished.

Titles

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date/
Cessation Date
Description Number Awarded
BotevPrize.jpg

Laureate Of The International Botev Prize.
Лауреат На Международна Ботевска Награда.
Laureat Na Mejudunarodna Botevska Nagrada.

1996 Awarded to poets for their poetry and contribution to peace, democracy and social progress.
Laureates:
1996: Nadine Gordimer South Africa
2001: Branko Cvetkoski Republic of Macedonia
2006: Yevgeny Aleksandrovich Yevtushenko Russia
30 May 2008: Aleksandr Isayevich Solzhenitsyn Russia
4

Orders

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date/
Cessation Date
Description Number Awarded

Order Of The Rose
(1st Class).

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to female foreigners for merit in the establishing friendly international relationships with The Republic Of Bulgaria.

Order Of The Rose
(2nd Class).

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to female foreigners for merit in the establishing friendly international relationships with The Republic Of Bulgaria.

Grand Cross Of The Order Of The Balkan Mountains.

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to foreign citizens for the establishment and strengthening of friendly international relations with The Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded for Military relationships the award was presented with swords. Designed by V. Starchev and K. Damyanov.

Order Of The Balkan Mountains
(1st Class).

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to foreign citizens for the establishment and strengthening of friendly international relations with The Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded for Military relationships the award was presented with swords. Designed by V. Starchev and K. Damyanov.

Order Of The Balkan Mountains
(2nd Class).

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to foreign citizens for the establishment and strengthening of friendly international relations with The Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded for Military relationships the award was presented with swords. Designed by V. Starchev and K. Damyanov.

Order Of The Madar Horseman
(1st Class).

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to foreign citizens for merit in establishment and strengthening of international relationships with The Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded to military personnel the order came with swords. Designed by D. Uzunov.

Order Of The Madar Horseman
(2nd Class).

4 August 1966/
9 June 2003
Awarded to foreign citizens for merit in establishment and strengthening of international relationships with The Republic Of Bulgaria. If awarded to military personnel the order came with swords. Designed by D. Uzunov.

Order For Loyal Service Under The Banner
(1st Class).

1994/
9 June 2003
The reverse of this Order depicts the imperial Order Of Bravery.

Order For Loyal Service Under The Banner
(2nd Class).

1994/
9 June 2003
The reverse of this Order depicts the imperial Order Of Bravery.

Order For Loyal Service Under The Banner
(3rd Class).

1994/
9 June 2003
The reverse of this Order depicts the imperial Order Of Bravery.

Order For Loyal Service Under The Banner
(4th Class).

1994/
9 June 2003
The reverse of this Order depicts the imperial Order Of Bravery.

Medals

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date/
Cessation Date
Description Number Awarded
125thAnniversaryOfBulgarianRailways.jpg

125th Anniversary Of Bulgarian Railways.

1991

Veteran Of The Wars.

1995 Awarded to all living Bulgarian veterans of any Bulgarian war.
BulgariaNationalRibbon.jpg

50th Anniversary Of Victory Over Hitler's Fascism.

9 May 1995 Awarded to all living Bulgarian veterans of the second world war.
Bulgarian75thAnniversaryOfConstructionTroops.jpg

75th Anniversary Of Construction Troops.

14 June 1995

For Merit In Construction Troops
(1st Class).

14 June 1995/
29 May 2003

For Merit In Construction Troops
(2nd Class).

14 June 1995/
29 May 2003

Republic Of Bulgaria (As Of 29th May 2003)

Legal organisation of the current Bulgarian honorary system is contained in the Constitution and the Decree on Intellectual Stimulation. Orders are established by the National Assembly and are awarded by the President of the Republic. The nomination of a foreign person is made by the Ministry of External Affairs, whereas Bulgarian nominees are selected by the Council of Ministers.

Titles

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date Description Number Awarded
BotevPrize.jpg

Laureate Of The International Botev Prize.
Лауреат На Международна Ботевска Награда.
Laureat Na Mejudunarodna Botevska Nagrada.

1996 Awarded to poets for their poetry and contribution to peace, democracy and social progress.
Laureates:
1996: Nadine Gordimer South Africa
2001: Branko Cvetkoski Republic of Macedonia
2006: Yevgeny Aleksandrovich Yevtushenko Russia
30 May 2008: Aleksandr Isayevich Solzhenitsyn Russia
4

Orders

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date Description Number Awarded
Stara-planina.jpg

Order Of The Balkan Mountains

29 May 2003 Awarded to Bulgarian citizens with particularly great merit to Bulgaria and foreigners for particularly great merit to bilateral relations and international cooperation. It has several variants and degrees.
Zom04p8.gif

Order Of Saint Cyril And Saint Methodius

29 May 2003 Awarded to people for particularly great contributions to the development of culture, art, education and science. Also with several variants and degrees.
Konnik05.jpg

Order Of The Madara Horseman
(1st Class)

29 May 2003 Awarded to people for particularly great contributions to the consolidation of bilateral relations with Bulgaria.
Konnik07.gif

Order Of The Madara Horseman
(2nd Class)

29 May 2003 Awarded to people for particularly great contributions to the consolidation of bilateral relations with Bulgaria.
Zom04p14.gif

Order For Civil Merit (1st Class)

29 May 2003 Awarded to Bulgarian citizens for great merit to the development and consolidation of the civil society.
Zom04p15.gif

Order For Civil Merit (2nd Class)

29 May 2003 Awarded to Bulgarian citizens for great merit to the development and consolidation of the civil society.
Zom04p17.gif

Order For Military Merit (1st Class)

29 May 2003 Awarded to Bulgarians and foreigners who helped develop and strengthen the Bulgarian Army.
Zom04p19.gif

Order For Military Merit (2nd Class)

29 May 2003 Awarded to Bulgarians and foreigners who helped develop and strengthen the Bulgarian Army.
Zom04p20.gif

Order For Military Merit (3rd Class)

29 May 2003 Awarded to Bulgarians and foreigners who helped develop and strengthen the Bulgarian Army.

Order For Honour

29 May 2003 Awarded for exhibits of valour and heroism for the benefit of Bulgaria and its society.

Medals

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date Description Number Awarded

For Merit

29 May 2003 Awarded to Bulgarians for merits in different areas of public life.
Bulgarian60thAnniversaryOfVictoryMedal.jpg

Bulgarian60thAnniversaryRibbon.jpg

60th Anniversary Of Victory In The Second World War.

2005 Awarded to all Bulgarian living veterans of the war and to non-veterans for merit.

Table Medals

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date Description Number Awarded

100th Anniversary Of Diplomatic Relations Between Bulgaria And The United States Of America.

2003

Badges

Badge And Ribbon Name (English/Bulgarian/Translit) Creation Date Description Number Awarded

Stabilisation Force Iraq 1st Infantry Battalion Bulgarian Army Karbala Iraq 2004

2004

External links


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