Returning decorations

In the early twentieth century, people who were decorated had to purchase the insignia themselves. During the Second World War it was decided that the State would provide decorations. This decision was reversed after the war. In 1955 policy changed again, this time ruling that the decoration would be provided by the State, but on loan. This still applies. The decoration remains the property of the State and must therefore be returned to the State after the recipient’s death. There are various reasons for this, including the risk that decorations may end up be offered for sale on the open market. Note that in some European countries recipients are still required to pay for their own insignia.

In the event of loss or theft of a decoration, the recipient should contact the Chancery of the Netherlands Orders as soon as possible. A replacement insignia can be issued. A charge is made for this service.

If the deceased’s relatives lived in The Netherlands, you will usually receive a letter from the Chancery of the Netherlands Orders explaining the procedure. The decoration can be returned without charge, or can be kept if a deposit is paid. You can also get in contact with the Chancery yourself, by telephone or email. The Chancery will send you a return envelope to return the decoration without charge. The final option is to return the decoration to the Chancery in person. Our offices are open from 9.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday. You do not need to make an appointment. 

If you can’t find the decoration, report the loss using the form sent to you by the Chancery of the Netherlands Order. The Chancery will then tell you what to do. 

The decoration always remains property of the State. If relatives wish to keep the insignia after the recipient’s death, they can do so after paying a deposit. The amount of the deposit depends on the type of decoration.

Only the insignia presented to the recipient needs to be returned. The certificate, the lapel badge (small insignia for daily use) and any miniatures purchased by the recipient do not need to be returned.