Instituted in 1917. Hardshelled design on both the lid and base, wooden-framed, the exterior with a black dimpled cloth covering on five sides, the bottom with a black pebbled cloth covering, the lid inscribed "G.B.E." in gold-coloured ink, inside lid lined in white satin, padded, marked with the King's crown above the maker mark "GARRARD & Co. Ltd. / Goldsmiths, Jewellers, &c. / TO THE KING / By special appointment / TO THE CROWN. / 24, ALBEMARLE ST., W." and exhibiting the impressions of the once present badge and breast star, the base with a white fabric-wrapped cardboard insert placed within it and lined in white satin in the bottom, the case missing its raised platform with the medal beds for the badge and breast star, dual-hinged on the left side, push release closure, measuring 147 mm (w) x 292 mm (h) x 47 mm (d), wear, scuffing and light soiling evident in the black cloth covering on the exterior and on the lips of both the lid and base, thereby exposing the underlying wooden framework, light soiling present on the white satin on the inside lid, scattered wear evident in the fabric overlying the hinged area, 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 Recommendations for appointments to the Order of the British Empire were originally made on the nomination of the United Kingdom, the self-governing Dominions of the Empire (later Commonwealth) and the Viceroy of India.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.