Instituted in 1917. Type I (1917-1935), Cased. In silver with a dark patina, maker marked "SG" (Sebastian Garrard), hallmarked with the British lion, marked with a leopard's head (made in London) and date marked "c" (1918) on the reverse, measuring 48.8 mm (w) x 64 mm (h), very light contact, original first type military ribbon with pinback, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, black thatched-look exterior, inscribed "M.B.E. MILy" (Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Member, Military Division) in gold-coloured ink on the lid, emboss stamped "FWA" on the bottom, inside lid in white satin, padded, maker marked "GARRARD & Co Ltd" and exhibiting the impression of the badge from the medal bed, base with a recessed medal bed and slotted for the pinback in off-white felt, measuring 67.2 mm (w) x 136.3 mm (h) x 18.5 mm (d), exhibiting scattered scuffing on the exterior, along with light soiling on the inside lid and the medal bed, case better than 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 Recommendations for appointments to the Order of the British Empire were originally made on the nomination of the United Kingdom, the self-governing Dominions of the Empire (later Commonwealth) and the Viceroy of India.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.