History

The Order of Beneficence was established by King Paul I on May 5, 1948. It is conferred upon Greek and foreign women in recognition of meritorious acts of charity, distinguished philanthropic activities, and distinguished service in the fields of teaching, literature, and the arts. It was not conferred between 1973 and 1975.

There are four versions of the Silver Cross The first was awarded from 1948 to 1973. It is surmounted by a royal crown and features a reverse medallion with the cypher of King George II. The second and third versions were awarded from 1975 to 1984. These versions do not have a surmounting crown and feature reverse medallions without an inscription, or with the initials “ED” (the first letters to “Greek Republic”). The fourth version does not have a crown and features a reverse medallion with the national coat of arms and “Greek Republic” in full. All four versions feature an obverse inscription that translates to "Beneficence."

There may be additional versions of the Silver Cross that vary in manufacturer.