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The 7 Secrets Of The Order Of Canada Pin: Design, Levels, And The Star-Studded 2024/2025 Recipients

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The Order of Canada pin is arguably the most discreet yet powerful symbol of national recognition in Canada, representing a lifetime of outstanding achievement and dedication. Unlike the full-sized insignia worn at formal ceremonies, this small lapel pin is the daily badge of honour, signaling membership in the cornerstone of the Canadian Honours System. As of December 2025, this prestigious circle includes over 8,600 of the country’s most impactful individuals, from scientists and artists to athletes and philanthropists.

The latest announcements, including high-profile names like actor Ryan Reynolds and former UFC champion Georges St-Pierre, have brought renewed public attention to this coveted award. Understanding the pin—its design, its motto, and the strict rules for its wear—is key to appreciating the profound legacy of the Order of Canada, which was established in 1967 to honour those who exemplify the national motto: "They desire a better country."

The Anatomy of Honour: Decoding the Order of Canada Insignia

The Order of Canada insignia, and its miniature lapel pin counterpart, are masterpieces of symbolic design. Conceived by artist Bruce Beatty, CM, SOM, CD, the design has remained virtually unchanged since the Order’s inception in 1967.

The core of the design is a stylized six-pointed snowflake, representing Canada's northern heritage. This shape is not random; it is a powerful national symbol. The full-size insignia is typically made of white enamel, with a central red annulus (ring) that holds the most critical elements.

At the center of the annulus is a stylized maple leaf, the ultimate Canadian emblem, surrounded by the Order's Latin motto: Desiderantes meliorem patriam, meaning "They desire a better country."

The Secret Color Code of the Lapel Pin

While the full-sized insignia for Companions, Officers, and Members are all distinct, the small, white-enameled lapel pin is the version most commonly seen on a recipient’s suit jacket or dress. All members receive a lapel pin shaped like a small snowflake, but the various levels of the Order are subtly differentiated by the color of the central maple leaf.

The three levels of the Order of Canada are:

  • Companion (CC): Reserved for those who have demonstrated the highest degree of merit and service to Canada or humanity. The insignia is gilt with a red enamel maple leaf in the center.
  • Officer (OC): Recognizes outstanding service to Canada or to humanity, on a national or international level. The maple leaf on the insignia is typically gilt with a gold appearance.
  • Member (CM): Acknowledges a lifetime of distinguished service in a community or field of activity. The maple leaf on the insignia is typically gilt with a silver appearance.

This subtle, hand-applied color difference, achieved through a unique application of opaque and translucent resin-based enamel, allows the recipient to wear a discreet badge of honour that immediately signals their rank within the Canadian Honours System.

The New Faces of the Order: Notable 2024 and 2025 Recipients

The Order of Canada is presented by the Governor General of Canada, who is also the Chancellor of the Order. The appointments are typically announced twice a year, with investiture ceremonies held to formally present the insignia. The recent lists of appointees for 2024 and 2025 have featured a diverse and inspiring group of Canadians, reflecting the country's broad spectrum of achievement.

Among the most recognizable figures recently named to the Order are:

  • Ryan Reynolds (OC): Appointed for his phenomenal success as an actor and producer, and his significant philanthropic efforts.
  • Georges St-Pierre (CM): The legendary former UFC champion, recognized for his achievements in mixed martial arts and his role as a positive role model.
  • Dr. Theresa Tam (OC): Canada’s former Chief Public Health Officer, honoured for her leadership and dedication to public health, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Maureen Ann Jennings (CM): The celebrated author best known for the "Murdoch Mysteries" book series, recognized for her contributions to Canadian literature.
  • Scott Oake (CM): A veteran sportscaster, appointed for his decades of work in broadcasting and his philanthropic foundation.
  • The Honourable Serge Joyal, P.C., C.C., O.Q.: Elevated to Companion, the highest rank, for his distinguished service in law and politics.
  • Joséphine Bacon, O.C., O.Q.: The Innu poet and filmmaker, recognized for her vital contributions to Indigenous arts and culture.

These individuals join a distinguished list of honourees, further solidifying the Order's role in recognizing those who have left an indelible mark on Canada and the world.

The Rules of Wear: When and How to Display the Pin

The wearing of Canadian honours is governed by strict protocol, ensuring the dignity and prestige of the award are maintained. The lapel pin, while a miniature, is no exception and is subject to rules regarding its display.

The Golden Rule: Only the actual recipient of the honour can wear its insignia or lapel pin. It is strictly prohibited for family members, including spouses or children, or any other person to wear the pin of the original recipient. This rule reinforces the personal nature of the achievement being recognized.

Occasions for Wear: The lapel pin is designed for daily or informal wear on civilian clothing, such as a suit, blazer, or coat. The full-size insignia, which is a larger badge worn on a ribbon around the neck (for Companions and Officers) or on a ribbon on the left side of the chest (for Members), is reserved for formal events like investiture ceremonies, state dinners, or other official functions.

International Protocol: When worn with other honours, Canadian awards take precedence over all Commonwealth or foreign honours, which must be approved for wear by the Government of Canada. This ensures the Order of Canada maintains its position as the pre-eminent national honour.

The simple act of wearing the small, white snowflake pin is a quiet yet powerful declaration of service. It serves as a constant, subtle reminder of the recipient's dedication to the motto, Desiderantes meliorem patriam, and their enduring contribution to a better Canada. Even in a moment of slight mishap, as when former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney's pin fell off on a tarmac, the symbol is treated with the utmost respect, with King Charles III reportedly offering to retrieve it. The Order of Canada pin is more than jewelry; it is a piece of national history.

The 7 Secrets of the Order of Canada Pin: Design, Levels, and the Star-Studded 2024/2025 Recipients
order of canada pin
order of canada pin

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