Founded by King Edward VII as the Conspicuous Service Cross it was changed and given its present name in 1914. The Cross is for award to Officers of the Royal Navy up to and including the rank of Commander, for acts of gallantry in the face of the enemy. Bars may be awarded for further acts of gallantry. Provision is made for officers of equivalent rank in the Royal Marines, the Army, RAF and Merchant Navy to be eligible when serving afloat.
Queen Elizabeth II issue
