Single 'STERLING' Marking On Cap Badge

[hagwalther]

Hi Guys,

Can anyone tell me the possible origin of a modern (ish) cap badge marked 'STERLING'.

As the badge has no other markings I assume that it was not manufactured in the UK.

Regards

Chris

[altcar73]

Originally Posted by hagwalther

Hi Guys,

Can anyone tell me the possible origin of a modern (ish) cap badge marked 'STERLING'.

As the badge has no other markings I assume that it was not manufactured in the UK.

Regards

Chris

I have a number of senior police officers cap badges to British Police Forces which are UK made and are marked "STERLING" on the back with no other markings. Whilst I cannot comment specifically in respect of military badges there is evidence that Firmins, Dowlers and Gaunt did/do produce such items.

Dave.

[mule-73k]

Hi
Sounds like a possible American badge. They simply put the words "STERLING" on the back of their badges. Who is the badge to?

Regards,

Dave

[hagwalther]

Thanks Dave and Dave,

Looking at the interweb I noticed that if made in the UK it would have to have the normal hall marks of maker, assay office and date.

I did notice some WWII pieces of pilot wings just marked 'STERLING' so yes, USA is a real possiblility.

Badge is a modern small version of the Coldstream Guards but not 100% sure who made it. The original and official 'New Metal' Coldstream Guards badges were indeed silver (OK for some) but later changed to nickle silver with a suffix of 'A' added to the pattern No. which were 30086 (large) 30087 (small). These 'upgrades' to nickle silver occurred in June 2006.

I'm wondering if it was commissioned by Firmin or other UK maker and manufactured in China where, I believe, Firmin has interests. However, any other suggestions where silver UK cap badges are made of great interest.

Regards

Chris

[hagwalther]

Hi Guys,

Attached is the 'STERLING' mark.

Size is approx. 5.25 x 1.00 mm.

Regards,

Chris