THE ORDER OF THE POLAR STAR

The Order of the Polar Star was until 1975 intended as a reward for Swedish and foreign "civic merits, for devotion to duty, for science, literary, learned and useful works and for new and beneficial institutions". The cross of the order is of the Maltese type and was originally worn in a black sash; since 1975 the sash is blue with yellow edges. The emblem bears the device of the order, "Nescit occasum" (It knows no decline.)

The Royal Order of the North Star (a.k.a. the Royal Order of the Polar Star)

Kungliga Nordstjarneorden (NO)

King Fredrik I instituted the Swedish Royal Order of the Polar Star in 1748. Until 1975, the order was awarded Swedish citizens for civic virtue, long meritorious service to the nation, and distinguished service within the field of science, and in social or cultural life. Women became eligible in 1952. Since 1975, the Royal Order of the Polar Star is reserved for foreign nationals in recognition of personal services to Sweden or for the promotion of Swedish interests. His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf is the Grand Master of this Order and decisions on the conferment of distinctions are made by him on the recommendation of the Swedish Government.

The badge consists of a white Maltese Cross set in gold (or in the case of the badge for Officer, silver) with open gold crowns in the angles between the arms of the cross. In the center is a blue medallion on which is portrayed a white Polar Star with the legend NESCIT OCCASUM ("It never sets").

The badge is surmounted by a gold royal crown and is attached to a blue silk ribbon with gold edges. In addition to the badge of the Order, the recipient obtains a diploma of the Order signed by the Grand Master and carrying the seal of the Royal Order.

Instituted: June 23rd, 1748 by King Frederik I.

Awarded to: Swedes and foreigners for civilian services, including scientific, literary and beneficial works. Since 1975, the order is only awarded to foreign nationals in recognition of personal services to Sweden or for the promotion of Swedish interests. The Order is no longer awarded to Swedish citizens.

Grades: 4 (Commander Grand Cross, Commander 1st Class, Commander, Knight).

Ribbon: Black (older versions) or in national colors with blue and yellow edge stripes (newer versions).