Order of the British Empire KBE Knight Commander Breast Star – First Type Britannia Pattern

Order of the British Empire – Knight Commander (KBE) Breast Star

A finely detailed collector reproduction of the early Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) breast star, featuring the distinctive Britannia-pattern central medallion used on the original design of the Order before 1937.

The star features a bright silver-tone multi-rayed body with a gold-tone central medallion depicting Britannia, surrounded by a rich crimson enamel ring bearing the historic motto: “FOR GOD AND THE EMPIRE.”

Its bold layered construction, contrasting silver, gold and red finish, and traditional reverse pin fitting give the piece the imposing appearance associated with senior British orders of chivalry.

Historic Britannia Pattern

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire was founded by King George V in 1917. The original insignia featured Britannia at the centre of the Order’s badges and breast stars. In 1937, the design was revised and Britannia was replaced by the crowned effigies of King George V and Queen Mary.

This piece is therefore inspired by the distinctive first-type Britannia pattern used from 1917 until 1937, making it particularly interesting for collectors of early British honours and First World War / inter-war era insignia.

Product Details

• Order: The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
• Grade: Knight Commander (KBE)
• Type: Breast Star
• Pattern: First Type / Britannia Pattern
• Period Represented: 1917–1937
• Finish: Silver-tone star with gold-tone central details
• Enamel: Crimson red central motto ring
• Reverse: Traditional long pin fitting
• Condition: New
• Includes: One breast star as shown

Design Details

• Layered eight-pointed star construction
• Raised and deeply formed silver-tone rays
• Central seated Britannia motif
• Gold-tone central medallion
• Crimson enamel motto ring
• Raised inscription: “FOR GOD AND THE EMPIRE”
• Traditional rear brooch pin for display or mounting

For Collectors & Historical Display

An impressive addition to collections focused on British orders, royal honours, First World War-era decorations, inter-war ceremonial insignia and historic European orders of chivalry.

Its large silver star form and vivid crimson-and-gold centre also make it particularly suitable for museum-style displays, study collections and historical exhibitions.

Collector Note:
This item is a modern collector reproduction inspired by the historic insignia of the Order of the British Empire. It is not an original period-issued decoration and is not an officially issued British honour.