Physical Description

The Badge of the Order consists of a horizontal oval above an inverted trapezium. Within the oval, a rhinoceros is depicted in front of the sun rising over Mapungubwe hill. There is a beadwork pattern across the curved upper edge of the trapezium, with an ornate crucible from which molten gold flows down to a red furnace in the centre, bordered by two twisted sceptres. The reverse shows the National arms. The Badge is identical for all grades, the metal varying according to class, and it is worn on a neck ribbon which is gold, edged with a line of cream-coloured bead-like dots along each edge, and recurring cream-coloured images of a rhinoceros down the centre.

History

This Order is conferred by the President of South Africa upon all South African citizens for international achievements that have served South Africa's interests.

It is awarded in conjunction with a Gold Miniature Medallion and a Gold Lapel Rosette.

There is limited information regarding this item.