S.A. Marines
 

I have a badge I picked up this morning which I think is South African Marines, I have tried to find this online, with little success, any help appreciated.

Rob

Rob,

You are correct.

A rare badge only worn for 2 years from 1953 -55.

regards

South African Marine Corps. Raised in 1951 it was a resuscitation of the SA Coast Artillery including the Coast Artillery Brigade Band with some additions. It comprised eight Regiments and a Training Unit, Permanent Force, and seven Coast Regiments, a Heavy Battery, two Anti-Aircraft Regiments and four Batteries and three Radar Companies, Active Citizen Force, serving all over the Union and South West Africa.

The unit was broken up in 1954, the units comprising it including the Cape Garrison Artillery, SA Coast Artillery and the SA Permanent Garrison Artillery became part of the South African Naval Forces.

The original ceremonial dress was blue with an orange stripe down the trousers. After being disbanded they wore naval uniform, the double-necked jacket as worn by petty officers being worn instead of the blue jumper.

This is their basic history Rob, and yes not a badge one sees every day. You have a very nice crisp example.

S.A. Marines
 

Many thanks chaps for your replys, I was offered it today as "Royal Marines" from a dealer at an antique fair who said it was a restrike.

Now I know that "honestly" is the best policy, but having looked I thought it was an original.

Brian and Simon, many thanks for your input, this forum should be visited by more collectors . . !

Best wishes

Rob

Is it not an original?

I think it is , yes.

Hi Rob

Here are the collar badges and 2 sizes of buttons.

S.A Marines
 

Leigh, as I have said, I'm no expert on S.A.badges, the fact the seller said it was a restrike basically meant nothing to me.
After sixty five years plus looking at badges made me buy it, it looked good to me and while I have said I'm no expert on Colonial badges there was something about it that said it was a good one.

Again, thanks to forum members Brian and Simon who I think know more than I do.

This badge will join my S.A. Board for present.

Brian, I will look out for the items you kindly show.

Rob

Rob, badge is 100% correct no worries there.