Instituted in 1917. Civil Division, Type I. Insignia in silver with red enamels, illustrating a seated Britannia surrounded by the inscription "FOR GOD AND THE EMPIRE", the insignia mounted to a cross base in silver gilt with light blue scaled-patterned enamels, the crowned cypher of King George V within a braided circular border on the reverse, measuring 62.3 mm (w) x 80.2 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, on its original full-length neck ribbon; and Breast Star: insignia in silver with red enamels, illustrating a seated Britannia surrounded by the inscription "FOR GOD AND THE EMPIRE", mounted to a silver eight-pointed star base, each of the star points with five rays, measuring 75.8 mm (w) x 76 mm (h), vertical pinback. Intact enamels, extremely fine. In their hardshelled case of issue, wooden-framed, maroon thatch-patterned fabric-wrapped exterior, marked "K.B.E." on the lid, maker marked "GARRARD & Co Ltd" on the white satin-lined and padded inside lid, impressions of the Badge and Breast Star offset into the white satin, raised platform with a white felt recessed medal bed for the Badge and a slotted medal bed for the Breast Star, push release closure, dual-hinged, scuffing, wear and discoluration evident on the exterior, case very fine.
Footnote: The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire is a British order of chivalry, rewarding contributions to the arts and sciences, work with charitable and welfare organizations, and public service outside the Civil service. It was established on June 4, 1917 by King George V, and comprises five classes across both civil and military divisions, the most senior two of which make the recipient either a knight if male or dame if female. There is also the related British Empire Medal, whose recipients are affiliated with, but not members of, the order. Recommendations for appointments to the Order of the British Empire were originally made on the nomination of the United Kingdom, the self-governing Dominions of the Empire (later Commonwealth) and the Viceroy of India. Nominations continue today from Commonwealth countries that participate in recommending British (Imperial) honours. Most Commonwealth countries ceased recommendations for appointments to the Order of the British Empire when they created their own honours.