The insignia of the Order consists of an oval medallion with an oak tree, a shield with the royal arms hanging from one branch, and on the left a mounted knight in armour. The badge's clear blue border bears the motto IN ACTION FAITHFUL AND IN HONOUR CLEAR in gold letters, and the oval is surmounted by an imperial crown. Men wear the badge round their necks, and women from a bow at the left shoulder.
Current Companions of Honour include naturalist David Attenborough, actor Paul Scofield, scientist Stephen Hawking, playwright Harold Pinter, and former Prime Minister John Major.
See also the list of people who have declined a British honour.