Volunteer Artillery Busby

[colin 17]

One of my new arrivals. The brown fur was only used by a few of the Regts most notably being the 3rd Middlesex VA "Truro's Tigers.

[3dg]

Amazing condition, very nice

Chris

[41st]

Nice addition

[Gary B]

Hi guys, I was wondering if you RA experts could help out a newbie?

On a Volunteers cap badge, how many leaves should I be looking for? I've seen the 12 leaves version advertised as "scarce" but is a 14 leaf version OK?
Thanks in advance - G

[Alan O]

Gary

The pre 1908 Volunteers was this one.

The one with laurel leaves was not Volunteers bu the Territorial Force post 1908


The makers variations come in different numbers of leaves.
Alan

[Gary B]

That's brilliant Alan - thanks so much (yet again!). Now the age-old question....which would be the best buy, slider or lugs?

[Alan O]

If you buy a lugged one then you want one with 2 E-W lugs and avoid 3 lugs like the plague as they are likely copies. The lugged ones are earlier.

The laurel wreath badge was worn by the TF until 1916 but continued to be worn by at least one OTC up to the late 1930s.

[Gary B]

Alan, thanks again - it's really brilliant that you share your knowledge so readily. Little nuggets like those you've just passed on are so well received I promise you!

(I realise that basic questions like mine must raise an eyebrow with you uber-experienced collectors but you still take the time to steer us newbies in the right direction......You and the other Forum members are wonderful ambassadors for a hobby that is clearly used by some less ethical individuals as an arena for profit.) Thanks again Alan.

[Alan O]

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/166083564...e51473b6aa782e

Look at the tip of the scroll above the T - if you see the 'nibble' then do not buy it as this is seen on many fake dies.

[Alan O]

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/155405500...4964a2e8320ad2

tall orb fake with 3 lugs

[Gary B]

Geez, that tall-orb badge looks so good doesn't it? I'd have bought that, got to be honest!