Established on 15 September 1884, it was created to honour benevolence and outstanding service to the public.

On the centre of the cross is a disc with a golden griffon surrounded by a gold ring.

The Grand Cross badge was worn at the left hip, hanging from a 4 in wide sash that goes over the right shoulder.

The Honour Cross was smaller still and did not have the gold ring surrounding the griffon in the centre.

In the centre of the star is a disc bearing a gold griffon.