History

The Order of the Empire (Ordem do Império) was established in 1932 as the Order of the Colonial Empire (Ordem do Império Colonial) to reward Portuguese citizens and foreigners, as well as upon national and foreign corporations, in recognition of military and civil service rendered to Portuguese colonies in Asia and Africa.

There were five grades; Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander Officer, and Knight. By decree the first four grades were in gilt, while the Knight was silvered.

It was permanently discontinued on April 25, 1974 following the Carnation Revolution.

The Grand Cross Breast Star is identical to the Grand Officer Breast Star.