The medallion is in gilded brass and enamels, measures 41.7 mm in height incl. eyelet x 41.0 mm in width. Massive riveted three-piece construction: the national rampant lion emblem and starburst are separate parts superimposed on the white enameled star. Excellent condition.

Roughly similar in concept to the contemporary East German Patriotic Order of Merit, this decoration was established on 4 August 1966 and awarded to both Bulgarian nationals and to foreigners who rendered services to the Bulgarian state, including high-ranking Soviet officials. It is one of the more attractive Bulgarian awards of the communist era and also one of the relatively scarce ones.