Historical information

Most Excellent Order of the British Empire


Awarded by Sovereign of the United Kingdom
Type Order of Chivalry
Motto For God and the Empire
Eligibility British nationals or anyone who makes an impact for the UK
Awarded for A national order of chivalry
Status Currently constituted
Sovereign Queen Elizabeth II
Grand Master Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
Principal Commander Sovereign
Grades (w/ post-nominals) Knight/Dame Grand Cross (GBE)
Knight/Dame Commander (KBE/DBE)
Commander (CBE)
Officer (OBE)
Member (MBE)
Established 1917
Precedence
Next (higher) Royal Victorian Order
Next (lower) Varies, depending on rank

Physical description

Miniature medal with ribbon

Inscriptions & markings

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