Early Issue Military Division London Hallmarked
Key Information:
• Country: Great Britain
• Award: Order of the British Empire
• Class: Member 5th Class M.B.E.
• Division: Military
• Material: Silver sterling
• London hallmarked 1918
• Maker: Sebastian Garrard SG
• Dimensions: approx. 62.06 x 48.60 mm
Medal Design:
Obverse inscription: FOR GOD AND THE EMPIRE
Central medallion depicting seated Britannia
Reverse: Royal cypher G R V beneath crown
Hallmarks on lower arm:
• SG – Sebastian Garrard
• Lion Passant – sterling silver
• Leopard’s Head – London assay
• Date letter D – 1918
Condition:
• Early first type M.B.E.
• Clear and legible London hallmarks
• Light surface wear consistent with age
• Even natural silver patina
• Ribbon present with visible wear and minor fraying
• Suspension intact
For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Order of the British Empire was instituted in 1917 by King George V during the First World War. Early London hallmarked examples from 1918 represent the first production period of the Order.
Military division examples in hallmarked silver from this early phase are increasingly desirable among collectors of British imperial decorations.
Summary:
An original early issue Order of the British Empire, Member 5th Class, military division, London hallmarked 1918, produced by Sebastian Garrard.
A strong and collectible early M.B.E. example.