Three Loops
 

The badge shown below is (in my opinion only) a fake. There are a number of reasons why I think this, but here I am interested in the fact that it has been made with three loops.

Attachment 184866 Attachment 184867

If this badge is a fake, is the three loop configuration purely the product of the faker, or are there examples of 100% genuine cap badges of comparable size that were fitted with three loops, and if so, (some Artillery examples notwithstanding) why might three loops on a cap badge be necessary?

With thanks,

JT

Whilst that is a fake (as are the RA ones) there were some Victorian badges with that configuration. The Royal Dragoons was found with 3 lugs for example.

Alan

But no others with three loops of the C20th period that you know of, Alan?

JT

Hi JT,

I can think of a few Victorian/Edwardian ORs cap badge examples, which include: The Royal Dragoons, 7th Dragoon Guards and 3rd Kings Own Hussars that are typically with three loops.

Then of course there are an array of officers’ head-dress badges adorning three loops and typically the 1942, RAC badge; although I have encountered that with two.

As to why there’s three loops, I imagine three opposed to two is to gain a balance depending on the size and shape of the badge, hence, reducing movement and thus being held steadfast in position.

Best,

Marcus

This was discussed earlier - I can't remember where and when - and a few examples were given. It got me going on a search for a nice 1896 Patt KLR with three loops - alas without success (yet) !
I do have an officer's one with three loops - and there is one with three blades too.
Anyway, I have a feeling that in the earlier thread there was mention of it being related to the FSH.

Thanks Marcus. Might the types of headdresses these badges were worn on at the time perhaps be a factor? I’m afraid I am not familiar enough with these units, but interesting that all mentioned so far have been cavalry regiments. Possibly coincidence.

JT

I had a good rummage but couldn’t locate a pertinent previous thread. Probably doing something wrong.

Thanks Julian,

JT

I don't think I have never seen an original Queen's with three loops, the badge you show appears to be brand new!

I concur completely, Frank. It’s a real shocker, but acquired in the full knowledge that it was as moody a ruminant as you’ll ever encounter.

I have seen a bi-metal example of this badge (W/M overlaid scroll, no vent holes to rear) though only in a photograph. That example had two loops (E/W), and so I am wondering whether or not it might have been the badge that was the basis of this shameless charlatan.

JT

The basic Queen's looks like the attached and are common badges.

The Royal Lincolnshire Regiment has three lugs.
Tony.

Royal West Kent's had three!

Excellent. So we can say that this configuration in itself is most definitely not a bad sign.

Thanks, gents.

JT

I think good Berks Imperial Yeomanry had 3 lugs. Not sure if any were produced as such post IY. Regards, Paul.

Thanks Paul. Appreciate your post.

There was never going to be any hope for our ovine imposter in the opening post, two loops, three loops or whatever. But happy to have established three loops is not an automatic thumbs down.

Cheers,

JT