New to Forum & Unknown badge/pin.
 

Hello, my first post. Can anyone supply info on the attached badge/pin? Have not come across this style of AIF badge before. Does not appear to be official military issue, so I'm assuming it's 'returned service' or some-such. Any info would be much appreciated.

Hello Celtica1400, welcome to the Forum. Your account is active and open for posts.

This lapel badge is not official issue. There are dozens of variations, including 'sweetheart broochs' worn by family or girlfriends in gold, silver, enamel, pearlshell etc etc which can be very elaborate . The plain brass ones like this may have been worn after the war by ex-servicemen but most would have worn officially issued lapel badges or regimental association badges. There are also a lot which were adapted from actual rising sun collar badges, including some mystery items with added stars or numbers which are yet unidentified.

Hi

I have a similar badge that has "ANZAC" in place of the AIF that is a feature of your badge.

The pin back fitting that is just visible suggests that the wearer was probably intended to be female (not always true, but a good rule of thumb...) hence the idea that it has a sweetheart or patriotic function.

Hope this helps.:)

Many thanks Kingsley & Dumdum. Your info gives us something to work on. Sorry for the delay in replying, still working on the Forum site navigation!

Hi

No worries. I'll dig out my example at some point. I think I have two of the same badge that I've described and one had/ has a small tube attached to the reverse.

Had no idea what it was for until an old retired jeweller told me that it was for a hat pin so suggesting that these may have had a patriotic role.

I also have a really nice, uncommon collar badge that has been "hat pinned"....:mad: