Instituted in 1888. Neck Badge: in silvered bronze with white enamels, measuring 53 mm (w) x 56.5 mm (h), on its full-length neck ribbon; and Breast Star: in silvered bronze with white enamels, measuring 69.3 mm (w) x 68.3 mm (h), vertical pinback. Intact enamels, although the enamels having yellowed slightly on the Neck Badge and extensively so on the Breast Star, very light contact, better than very fine. In their hardshelled case of issue, pebbled exterior on all sides, Order of St. John insignia in silver-coloured ink in the centre of the lid, inside lid in white satin, padded, maker marked "SPINK LONDON" and exhibiting the impressions of the Badge and Breast Star, raised platform in black felt with recessed medal beds for the Badge and Breast Star, measuring 120 mm (w) x 240 (h) x 39 mm (d), one spot on the white satin lining, case near extremely fine.
Footnote: The Order of St. John was instituted on May 14, 1888, by Royal Charter granted by Queen Victoria, establishing the Order as an Order of the British Crown. It is awarded in five grades: Bailiff or Dame Grand Cross, Knight or Dame of Justice or of Grace, Commander Brother or Sister, Officer Brother or Sister, Serving Brother or Sister, Donat.