Thanks Steven.
Questions:
1. The badge measures 42,5 x 31,5 mm, which to me suggests cap badge size.
2. The reverse of the crown is a casting recess.
Observations of your badge:
1. it is.
2 I agree.
3. The blades look brazed on, usually they look as if stuck into the cast, so perhaps this one might have had lugs?
Observations on examples I have:
1. Yes, there are no traces of a separate silver serpent ever having been attached. Also the casting of the serpent is highly detailed, which I doubt would have been done when a separate serpent would have been attached on top of it.
2. Yes.
3. That would have been a later badge. Introduced in 1948 according to Hodges.
Thoughts:
1. Doubt it, see above, also there are traces of gilding on the reverse of the snake.
2. The overall quality is much too nice to have been made in India. the obverse is extremely detailed, the reverse is perfectly smooth apart from the casting recesses in the crown and serpent.
The badge came with a dull cherry leather(!) backing, which first came into use circa 1947-1948 according to Audax, Hodges has 1956.
My impression is that it is a high quality British made officers cap badge with gilt serpent, rod, wreath and crown and an overlaid silvered scroll.
Rgds,
Thomas.
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