Very interesting discussion, Gents about a controversial badge.
I have a similar one which came with a 1945 Kangol beret.
1945 Beret NV White Metal With Beret.jpg 1945 Beret Badge attachment.jpg
I've made a few close-up comparisons with the photos provided by Marinus. We can clearly see the die flaws on mine.
Badge Comp.jpgWhite Metal Die Flaws Comp.jpg
However, the badges don't seem quite identical, particularly the lion.
Lion Comp.jpg
What's interesting is the way the unsymmetrical lugs distance which makes me think that the badge is original to the beret.
Of note, my badge has been slightly polished (rigging lines and crown) which doesn't seem to be the case for the other one.
1945 Beret NV White Metal.jpg
I would love to see a better photo of Paul's badge. Difficult to come up with a definitive conclusion on this variant as it seems.
Looking forward to seeing your comments.