Gold-plated silver and pale blue enamel cross patonce with rose pink bow above; the face with a circular central gold-plated silver medallion with the portrait of Britannia seated, her left arm extended resting on a shield, an upright trident in her right hand, within a rose pink enamel ring; the reverse plain gold-plated silver, inscribed centrally ‘For God And The Empire’, hallmarks below, a loop for suspension above for wear as a pendant and with replaced pin for wear as a brooch; diameter 34.97mm (1.37 inch); in original case.
The British Empire Collection was founded in 1977, year of the Diamond Jubilee of the Order of the British Empire, by Lady Penelope Gilbey, daughter of the 4th Earl of Stradbroke, with the stated purpose of producing items inspired by the Order for wear or display by holders and medallists and by members of their families.
The influence of the Order on the design is clear; however the brooch is entirely unofficial.
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