Interpreting reference numbers on trade patches
 

Can anyone shed light on the different sequences of reference numbers used on Royal Navy trade patches? I am assuming that there has been a standard list of reference numbers at any particular point in time, which has been updated periodically over the years.

I am attaching pictures of some trade patches, of the same trade designations, but showing different reference numbers for the same trade patch.

I would interested to know if the lists of reference numbers can be found somewhere, as well as periods during which each list was valid?

I assume that the 3 digits plus letter are the oldest, followed by 5 digits starting with '30' (in this case) and then '33', and finally the most recent being the longer reference starting with 'V086' or 'V087'.

They are VOCAB numbers - unique stores references. Have a look here, there is I think a full list somewhere.

The other numbers are part NSNs - NATO stock numbers e.g. 139-9372

https://rmhistorical.com/royalnavy

Tim

Here is the Royal Marines VOCAB list https://rmhistorical.com/images/Mast...cab%20List.pdf

Tim

This is a current list which shows some of the old VOCAB numbers and the NSNs.

https://rmhistorical.com/files/conte...20Jun%2016.pdf

Tim

Thank you Tim!

This is most helpful, especially for modern trade patches and older patches from c.1956.

Any ideas where Vocab numbers for WW2 FAA patches might be found?

Some FAA badges described here from a 1956 order.

https://rmhistorical.com/files/conte...-1956%20RN.pdf

Would they be as WW2?

Tim

Page 11 shows some air ratings badges with ‘pattern nos’ in the 70 to 80 series which may be part VOCAB numbers

https://rmhistorical.com/files/conte...-1939%20RN.pdf

Tim

Thank you Tim!

WW2 numbers are in different format, i.e. 3 digits plus a letter.

See the attached Meteorological Observer patches, the first of which I believe to date from the late 1940s (introduced in 1948) or early 1950s, and the second which I believe dates from the mid-1950s onwards.

I have also attached a photo of an Air Mechanic Fitter (F) patch, which - according to the information I have - was only in use from 1948 to 1956; the Vocab number also being of the earlier format of 3 digits and a letter.

Anyway, I will keep searching...