Old English pattern Metal Prize Badges

[manchesters]

Hello,

I have a keen interest in British Prize and Proficiency badges etc and have always used Edwards and Langley's "British Army proficiency badges" book as my bible since getting it new from Denis in 1984.

I am, however, puzzled as to whether or not the "Old English pattern" metal letter in wreaths were ever used in the British Army.

The type I am referring to are shown at 13A (l for Layer), 21A, B & C (G for Most efficient Gunner), 56A (MG for Machine Gunner), 57 (LG for Lewis Gunner - not illustrated), 60A (R for Rangetaker).

Ebay Australia is always awash with these badges, many of which are in the typical oxidised finish of Oz WW2 badges and indeed have distinctive flat brass circular loops to the rear.

Many have brass backing plates with room for a star or crown addition. Many of these back plates are stamped by Arendson of Melbourne. (Also appear with crossed rifles on same backplate)

Its only the advent of the internet that these things can be noted and I am wondering if in 1984 the authors just assumed they were British.

I would welcome any discussion on these points to establish whether or not any of these badges were worn in the British Army, and if so, when.

I personally am unconvinced they are British but would love to be proved wrong.

regards

[54Bty]

I am fairly sure that in the later supplement the badges you have noted above have been noted as Australian.

Marc

[manchesters]

Marc,

Later supplement?

Oops! I didnt know that existed. Is it copyable or too lengthy?

reagrds

[manchesters]

Originally Posted by 54Bty

I am fairly sure that in the later supplement the badges you have noted above have been noted as Australian.

Marc

Hello,

Can anyone assist with a copy of the supplement Marc mentions for Edwards & Langley British Army Proficiency Badges book please?

regards

[John L]

Simon
I don't know about a supplement but in their new book [2005] page 134 says l 13A, MG 56A and R 60A are Australian and almost certainly G 21A and 21B.

John

[REME245]

The book was reprinted in 2005 with an additional small section at the back.

The quality of the pictures is not as good as the original as it appears to be a scan of the original.