Instituted in 1917. Civil Division, Type I (1917-1935), Cased. Badge: three-piece construction, in silver gilt with red and light blue enamels, unmarked, measuring 62.3 mm (w) x 85.5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown and integral ring suspension, accompanied by a replacement first type military neck ribbon with hook and eye closure, exhibiting scattered gilt wear on the insignia; and Breast Star: two-piece construction, insignia in silver gilt with red enamels, mounted to a eight-pointed silver star base with a dark patina, each of the four larger star points with five emanating rays, each of the four smaller star points with three emanating rays, with a single emanating ray between each of the eight star points, unmarked, measuring 79.5 mm (w) x 78.5 mm (h), vertical pinback. Intact enamels, extremely fine. In their hardshelled case of issue, black pebbled exterior, inscribed "K.B.E." (Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Knight Commander, Civil Division) in gold-coloured ink on the lid, inside lid in white satin, padded, maker marked "GARRARD & Co Ltd" and exhibiting the impressions of the badge and breast star from the medal bed, base with a raised platform incorporating a recessed medal bed in off-white felt, measuring 115 mm (w) x 230 mm (h) x 41 mm (d), exhibiting light scuffing, nicks and edge wear on the exterior, along with light discolouration in the white felt of 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 Recommendations for appointments to the Order of the British Empire were originally made on the nomination of the United Kingdom, the self-governing Dominions of the Empire (later Commonwealth) and the Viceroy of India.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.