THE MOST DISTINGUISHED
ORDER OF ST MICHAEL AND ST GEORGE

In 1814 Great Britain enjoyed an important victory over Napoleon’s forces, gaining control of Malta and the Ionian islands.  Much credit for the victory was down to brave and loyal Maltese and Ionian islanders.  In 1818 the Prince Regent instituted the new order- The Distinguished  Order of St. Michael and St. George.

Ede and Ravenscroft was appointed to make the mantles.  By 1864 the Order was bestowed on a wider range of British subjects.  Today diplomats and other members of the Foreign Office or loyal subjects  who have offered valuable service connected to Commonwealth or foreign affairs may be privileged enough to receive the Order.

The emblem depicts the Archangel St. Michael clasping a sword and trampling on Satan. The motto reads: “ Auspicum Melioris Aevi” ‘Token of a better Age’.The mantle is in Saxon-blue satin, lined with scarlet silk taffeta.  On the left breast sits a gold and silver hand embroidered badge. A centrepiece features an enamelled plate with the Order’s emblem and motto. The mantle is fastened at the front with embroidered cordons of blue, red and gold.  The collar is attached with silk satin shoulder bows.

• The Royal Victorian Order
• The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
• The Most Noble Order of the Garter
• The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle
• The Most Honourable Order of The Bath