Instituted May 14, 1888. A very scarce 18K Gold Maltese cross with white enamelled arms, with alternating Gold lions and unicorns between the arms of the cross, reverse mirrors obverse, connected to an elongated loop suspension by a scalloped pie shape and eyelet between the knees of the 12 o’clock arm, marked 18 on loop denoting 18 karat Gold, and maker marked JBC, measures 56.15mm (w) x 56.50mm (h), weighs 21.9 grams, enamel chips near the center on three of the four arms on obverse and reverse, slight discolouration on arms, one lion minorly bent, however a very scarce piece to see in Gold, in overall near very fine condition.
Footnote: The Order of St. John, formerly known of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, was constituted by Queen Victoria by Royal Charter on May 14, 1888. Membership of the Order is open to suitable candidates of any Christian faith who demonstrate the tenants of the Order by acting to prevent and relieve sickness and injury as well as to enhance the health and well-being of people anywhere in the world. The Order is conferred in 5 grades. Knight/ Dames of Justice and Knights/Dames of Grace hold the same rank within the Order. However, Knights or Dames of Grace may be reclassified by a Grand Prior into a Knight or Dame of Justice. Most Knights and Dames of Justice members are required to hold to right to bear arms. Members of the Knight/Dame of Justice are entitled to use the post-nominal letters "KStJ" or "DStJ" within the organization.