Hi Mike
Thanks for that. Yes, I did wonder if the use of the crown was sanctioned or not.
I have a couple of the large RSL badges one of which has the enameled date clasp "1919" and the other has a small AIF Battalion patch in the place of the date clasp.
I don't think that their use was widespread until the badge was "downsized" at a date that can be no doubt confirmed by one of our Australian members.
I first noticed that the Battle Veterans badge had the same shield shape as the standard RSL badge (both large and small) but that the two figures on that badge had been replaced by a sword. Now that REALLY is a weapon for battle!
The large badge makes quite a statement but is also very prone to damage. Some years back I was crossing the road near work when a young chap with an interesting fashion sense passed me by. He was wearing one of the large badges!
I wish I'd pursued him and offered him something for it...
Thanks again
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