Weird rate badge on RN CPO's tunic - British & Commonwealth Military Badge Forum

RCN · #1 08-01-13, 05:24 PM

Here is a rate badge I have never seen before but I dont know how well its going to show up with these small photos, I have a good image of it on my computer but how clear its going to show up here is debatable.

The badges are on his lapel (where they should be for a CPO) the left one is the clearest, & appears to be a Victorian Crown over a star(6 pointed, as it should be) & the rate logo appears to be an upwards curved sword, almost like a Japanese samuri sword...

as an aside, the medal he is wearing is a Victorian Naval LS medal. It wont be obvious in the photo attachment but it is in the larger version.

what are the thoughts on this one?

RCN Bryan

Empire collector · #2 09-01-13, 11:04 AM

Is it something to do with.. (& I'm guessing here)

Petty Officer Apprentice

or am I completely off the mark.

Alan

RBJ MIlitaria · #3 09-01-13, 11:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Empire collector

Is it something to do with.. (& I'm guessing here)

Petty Officer Apprentice

or am I completely off the mark.

Alan

Hi dont think so that would be cuff insignia is it a merchant or other type service ?

bobbluesboy · #4 25-02-13, 01:35 AM

This chap has the the 3 buttons and 6 buttons for a CPO but could his collar badges be for the Coastguard ? Bob.

RCN · #5 25-02-13, 12:56 PM

Thanks for responses mates,

I now have the photo of the CPO & its definitely a Seaman Gunner rate badge
on his lapels. The rate badge on his left lapel is quite a bit clearer in the actual photo, but as there is some curve to his lapel thus distorting the badge somewhat.

I will try to post a couple of closeups of the rate badge later in the day, but below is what the actual badge looks like.......

RCN Bryan

RCN · #6 27-02-13, 08:02 PM

OK so here are the closeup of the "mystery rate badge" being worn by this CPO,
The rate badge is quite clear when enlarged & you can see the slight curve to his lapel causing some distortion to the badge.

Actually you can even see the young head of Queen Victoria on his Naval LS medal also.

RCN Bryan

Antrim82 · #7 27-02-13, 10:14 PM

My sources suggest he is a Gunnery Instructor not qualified in Torpedo work from the period 1891 to 1903. There should also be a version of the badge with a second star below which would be if he was also a Captain of Turret.

Hope this helps

RCN · #8 27-02-13, 10:35 PM

Yes he would be GI. The badge I illustrated in the post above was worn by a Victorian SG & GI, I have his rate badges & medals.

RCN Bryan