Need Info on Extraordinary WO1 Sleeve Badge
 

I recently bought this extraordinary framed WO1 sleeve badge on scarlet backing here in the US (I'm British but now live in Virginia) and it has the following handwritten inscription on the back of the frame:

"BRIGADE OF FOOT GUARDS - BRITISH ARMY GUARDS REGT - SGT - MAJOR INSIGNIA WORN ON TUNIC SLEEVE - PURCHASED IN LONDON 1978"

The insignia measures 6" high by 5 1/2" wide and is executed in gold and silver thread adorned with gold sequins.

The whole badge is embroidered in high relief with the central shield of the Royal Coat of Arms being about 1/2" thick..!

I served in the Corps of Royal Engineers in the 1970s but never saw such a magnificent insignia.

Can anyone tell me anything at all about it? Date? Regiment? Reason for it having been so exquisitely and expensively made even..?

I have worn No 1's but never saw such a badge, even on those.

Thanks in advance

Welcome to the Forum rickmcm. Your account is active and open for responses.

Worn by Guards RSM's
Cheers
Sean

As Sean says worn by the Regimental Sergeant Major of Foot Guards Battalions in Home Service Clothing, the new Garrison Sergeant Major London District badge is similar but superimposed on four chevrons.

Simon.

1953 onwards.
Andy

Thank you! Much appreciated!

Here is a more recent example. The earlier badges seem to be of better quality!

Tim

Image FYI.

Awra best

William

Thanks Tim.

You are right - the one I have makes this one seem pitifully poor...

That is a very nice early ERII badge, when they could still do superb quality work. The bullion stuff of the past 20 or 30 years is for the most part disgraceful, made of non metallic wrapped threads and almost comical
workmanship.

CB

This one is going for £399.00 ! :eek:

Saw that the other day - a trusted seller as I recall.

Yes, ME and its cheap, trust me, I have bought several over the past few years at auction for far more.

regards

I was getting a grovel in......

No offence meant , I was just shocked at the prices things go for.