It was established 16 April 1913 by George Tupou II to reward those who distinguished themselves by exceptional services to the State and the Crown.

[2] The first awards were made in August 1914, to the King, Queen ʻAnaseini Takipō and to F T Goedicke, the Chancellor of the Order.

[3] Shortly afterwards word arrived of the outbreak of the First World War, and the king suspended further awards for the duration.

[4] It can be awarded to militaries and civilians, native of Tonga or foreigner, without distinction of religion.

The red central medallion has a raised gold Tongan crown, the red riband has a gold legend in capital letters : KO'E 'OTUA MO TONGA KO HOKU TOFI'A.