New Zealand Other Items.
Returned Soldiers/Services Associations.
South African War Veteran’s Association
New Zealand's first major overseas war saw 6 495 Officers and men sent in 10 contingents to assisted the Empire in South Africa between 1899 to 1902. Thankfully many of them returned back to New Zealand when hostilities came to an end.
Like their WW1 counterparts, some 14 years later, they set up their own associations to look after the Soldiers and their families on their return.
Like their WW1 counterparts, some 14 years later, they set up their own associations to look after the Soldiers and their families on their return.
- Above: This is the standard and most commonly encountered South African War Veteran’s association badge in Bronze (member’s badge), Silver (Merit badge) and Gold (Life Members badge). Made by Mayer & Kean (Wellington) from 23rd of April 1933.
- Opposite: A South African War Veteran’s Association badge made from the 15th of December 1930 by Mayer & Kean (Wellington).
Possibly also made by W R Bock & Sons.
Sometimes called the “threepenny bit” because of its small size. Used by the SA Veterans in their journal "The Veteran" from the 1940s through to the 1950s.
Opinions differed as to whether or not it best represented the Association with as many supporters as detractors. Its limited survival these days may suggest that it was not retained or liked by many of the members.
Possibly also made by W R Bock & Sons.
Sometimes called the “threepenny bit” because of its small size. Used by the SA Veterans in their journal "The Veteran" from the 1940s through to the 1950s.
Opinions differed as to whether or not it best represented the Association with as many supporters as detractors. Its limited survival these days may suggest that it was not retained or liked by many of the members.
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- Opposite: A First Contingent Association badge. Arguably the first South African Veteran’s Association badge.
Made by W R Bock & Sons (Wellington). Made in silver but a gold example was said to have been struck for Major A W Robin. 
- Above: A unusual variant on the South African War Veteran’s Association large Fernleaf. Possibly 1920’s in date to match the other, more common large badge.
Examples have mostly been found in the South Island so it is conceivable that this is a badge for this region. Made by Moller, Petersen (both Christchurch) or Swan (Dunedin). An association number crudely engraved to the rear. |
- Opposite: A large South African War Veteran’s Association badge (circa 1920’s).
Mentioned in contemporary press reports and used in advertisements for reunions. Good reason to describe this as an Auckland association badge. Examples found are unmarked but one has been sighted stamped “W H Worrall, Auckland” and all seem to have been struck on the same die with the misaligned “F” to “AFRICA”.
Referred to in "The Veteran" as “looking like a breastplate” when compared to the small round badge.
Mentioned in contemporary press reports and used in advertisements for reunions. Good reason to describe this as an Auckland association badge. Examples found are unmarked but one has been sighted stamped “W H Worrall, Auckland” and all seem to have been struck on the same die with the misaligned “F” to “AFRICA”.
Referred to in "The Veteran" as “looking like a breastplate” when compared to the small round badge.
- Opposite: A variant on the above badge with the addition of the word “WAR”. Reason for this is unclear but possibly to avoid confusion with supporters of South African sports teams touring New Zealand in the 20’s, the period when this badge was in general use. Lettering is placed differently suggesting that a new die was cut for this badge. This badge is encountered far less frequently than the standard large Fernleaf.
The addition of a small silver Fernleaf, riveted to the tip of the badge is to indicate distinguished service to the Association. The 1958 edition of "The Veteran" stated that these were obtainable from the firm of Gisborne jewelers Good & Co Ltd.
These were priced as “unmounted Gold 4/6, Silver 1/6, plus postage”.
The addition of a small silver Fernleaf, riveted to the tip of the badge is to indicate distinguished service to the Association. The 1958 edition of "The Veteran" stated that these were obtainable from the firm of Gisborne jewelers Good & Co Ltd.
These were priced as “unmounted Gold 4/6, Silver 1/6, plus postage”.
Footnote: the precise dating of South African Veteran’s Association badges is difficult as the organisation itself was somewhat disorganised in the beginning, with a good deal of local initiatives when it came to the creation of badges. The search for a universal badge seems to have never been quite achieved, although the small fern leaf would be the most plentiful and most recognised.
Why the fern leaf faces left and then right depending upon the period may never becompletely understood but may be the result of a desire to create a point of difference between regions.
Why the fern leaf faces left and then right depending upon the period may never becompletely understood but may be the result of a desire to create a point of difference between regions.
New Zealand Returned Soldiers/Services Association
The next War's first Returned Soldiers Association was formed in October 1915, in Dunedin. The ANZAC Club as it was called, was set up for discharged Soldiers from Trentham Camp, South African Veterans and disabled Soldiers of the current war which was happening at the time, i.e. WW1.
Further Soldiers Associations began then formed throughout the country, including the Auckland Returned Solders Association (A.R.S.A) on the 26th of Jan 1916.
Further Soldiers Associations began then formed throughout the country, including the Auckland Returned Solders Association (A.R.S.A) on the 26th of Jan 1916.
- Above: A Type 1 Auckland RSA badge made by William Reuben Watts (1869-1940). Number stamped to reverse with lowest number seen of this type being 10 and up to the 200 range. Badges were originally issued with a piece of swallow-tailed red ribbon like this example.
- Opposite: A WW1 NZ Soldier from the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regt, wearing his ARSA on his right breast, with ribbon. Note the crossed signal flags in brass on his right sleeve. |
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- Above: A close up of the same soldier, with his ARSA badge and ribbon being worn.
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- Above: A Type 2 Auckland RSA badge made by William Reuben Watts (1869-1940). Higher numbers for this badge type and note some detail differences to the ponga tree (where the frond hangs down over trunk). Possible that the die broke and a new one was cut.
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- Opposite: A Type 3 Auckland RSA badge made by Charles McIntyre Page (1869-1919), watchmaker and jeweller of Queen St, Auckland. Finer detail, serifed letters to A.R.S.A.. Association number, Page’s name and Stg Sil mark applied to a small silver disc soldered to the reverse of the badge. Much higher numbers, mostly over 1000. Page making these badges would again suggest a broken or lost die.
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- Opposite: A small advert in the Auckland Star (17th of March 1917 - Issue 57), urging members of the public to hand in any A.R.S.A badges found.
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Footnote: Page’s death in 1919 would suggest that Watts made the ARSA badge for a relatively short period (starting in 1916) and that possibly no more badges were made after Page’s death. ARSA members could “exchange” their badge for the standard RSA badge but it would appear that many chose to keep them as groupings of the both badges have been known to surface from time to time. At one stage, the ARSA placed an advertisement in the paper urging members of the public to hand in the ARSA badge if found as they were unable to obtain any more.
Numbers found on these badges are not service numbers and would have been only identifiable by records held by ARSA.
Numbers found on these badges are not service numbers and would have been only identifiable by records held by ARSA.
At a meeting held on the 26th of April 1916 in Wellington, it was voted on that a National Returned Soldiers Association be set up. All previous formed associations then agreed to "join" the New Zealand National Returned Soldiers Association (N.Z.R.S.A).
In June 1916 a large R.S.A badge (see opposite top) was agreed and adopted as the organisations membership badge. It was to have the Soldiers service number engraved (and sometimes stamped) to front.
Manufacturing of these badges was initially done by Mayer & Kean, 4 Willis Street, Wellington, New Zealand, who were granted the contract on 21st December 1916.
The badges were property of the New Zealand RSA, but relatives of the soldier were permitted to keep the badge after they passed.
They were not permitted to wear them.
- Opposite Top: A large, Silver, 1916 patt R.S.A badge to Trooper 7/1798 Laurie Albert Yarrall, a 7th Mounted Rifle Reinforcement, who service with the Canterbury Mounted Rifles. Note his service number is engraved to front. Size 43mm x 26mm and marked "SILVER" to back in raised letters.
On either side of the service number to front on the large badge is "RGD" and "861" or Registered Design 861 (it is on the back of the small badge, see below), which was registered on the 5th of June 1916 to the New Zealand Returned Soldiers Association Headquarters, Wellington, Box 199, GPO Wellington, N.Z.
This was extended on the 5th of June 1921 for 5 more years, and then again on the 5th of June 1926, for a further 5 years.
- Above Base: A small type post October 1927 Silver RSA badge to Trooper 7/1798 Laurie Albert Yarrall. This smaller badge was introduced due the old badge being considered too large by some, also the smaller costing less, but there was some antagonism rumored, between the volunteers for WW1 (mainly chaps with a unit number then / or bar to their service number) and those who were conscripted (introduced on the 1st August 1916 - they had mainly a straight 5 digit service number only). This was all visible from the front of the large badge, but with the introduction of the small badge, the service number moved to the back. Laurie's small badge has his service number "7/1798" stamped to back. Size is 22mm by 14mm.
There were also reports at the time, that the new smaller badge was introduced to clean up the membership, a number of members wore the badge, but had not paid their dues, and a few civilians had also taken to wearing the badge without the correct authority. With the new badges introduction, a clean up was seen to be made of the membership.
Sadly this didn't prevent the old "large" badge from still being worn and in some districts, for example Dunedin, members were offered the small badge if they traded in their old larger badge for free, but they could also purchase the new small badge for 2s 6d, and retain their old badge as well.
Note the "date" plaque, which is added over the top of the Kings crown. This was introduced in 1941 to show that the wearer had paid his/her Association fee's for the year. Laurie's shows that he paid up to 1961. Each year tab was a different colour, and sadly this sometimes also indicates when a old Soldier dies, as it has his last "paid up" year before he passes.
In June 1916 a large R.S.A badge (see opposite top) was agreed and adopted as the organisations membership badge. It was to have the Soldiers service number engraved (and sometimes stamped) to front.
Manufacturing of these badges was initially done by Mayer & Kean, 4 Willis Street, Wellington, New Zealand, who were granted the contract on 21st December 1916.
The badges were property of the New Zealand RSA, but relatives of the soldier were permitted to keep the badge after they passed.
They were not permitted to wear them.
- Opposite Top: A large, Silver, 1916 patt R.S.A badge to Trooper 7/1798 Laurie Albert Yarrall, a 7th Mounted Rifle Reinforcement, who service with the Canterbury Mounted Rifles. Note his service number is engraved to front. Size 43mm x 26mm and marked "SILVER" to back in raised letters.
On either side of the service number to front on the large badge is "RGD" and "861" or Registered Design 861 (it is on the back of the small badge, see below), which was registered on the 5th of June 1916 to the New Zealand Returned Soldiers Association Headquarters, Wellington, Box 199, GPO Wellington, N.Z.
This was extended on the 5th of June 1921 for 5 more years, and then again on the 5th of June 1926, for a further 5 years.
- Above Base: A small type post October 1927 Silver RSA badge to Trooper 7/1798 Laurie Albert Yarrall. This smaller badge was introduced due the old badge being considered too large by some, also the smaller costing less, but there was some antagonism rumored, between the volunteers for WW1 (mainly chaps with a unit number then / or bar to their service number) and those who were conscripted (introduced on the 1st August 1916 - they had mainly a straight 5 digit service number only). This was all visible from the front of the large badge, but with the introduction of the small badge, the service number moved to the back. Laurie's small badge has his service number "7/1798" stamped to back. Size is 22mm by 14mm.
There were also reports at the time, that the new smaller badge was introduced to clean up the membership, a number of members wore the badge, but had not paid their dues, and a few civilians had also taken to wearing the badge without the correct authority. With the new badges introduction, a clean up was seen to be made of the membership.
Sadly this didn't prevent the old "large" badge from still being worn and in some districts, for example Dunedin, members were offered the small badge if they traded in their old larger badge for free, but they could also purchase the new small badge for 2s 6d, and retain their old badge as well.
Note the "date" plaque, which is added over the top of the Kings crown. This was introduced in 1941 to show that the wearer had paid his/her Association fee's for the year. Laurie's shows that he paid up to 1961. Each year tab was a different colour, and sadly this sometimes also indicates when a old Soldier dies, as it has his last "paid up" year before he passes.
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- Above Left & Right and Opposite: Along with Laurie's two RSA badges, are also two of his paybooks (above) from WW1. The larger book covers from 6th of April 1917 to the 7th of April 1919. The smaller book is from the 4th of May 1919 to 22nd of Oct 1919. Above left shows Laurie's rate of pay as a Trooper in the Canterbury Mounted Rifles, of 2s per day. Between the 26th of Feb 1918 and the 30th of Mar 1918, Laurie received a extra 1s per day due to being appointed Cook.
- Opposite: Is Laurie's Certificate of Discharge, which every soldier in the NZEF received upon finally leaving the Army in New Zealand or wherever they chose to be discharged (some were discharged in the UK). Laurie's certificate shows that he spent 3 years and 302 days overseas with the NZEF and was discharged on 15th of Oct 1919.
Laurie started his service on the 24th of Aug 1915, and had a total service of actually 4 years and 52 days, but much of the difference was spent in New Zealand Training.
Upper left in the opposite picture is the registered envelop which these certificates were sent in to the soldier, once home. Both are a mixture of cloth and waxed paper.
- Opposite: Is Laurie's Certificate of Discharge, which every soldier in the NZEF received upon finally leaving the Army in New Zealand or wherever they chose to be discharged (some were discharged in the UK). Laurie's certificate shows that he spent 3 years and 302 days overseas with the NZEF and was discharged on 15th of Oct 1919.
Laurie started his service on the 24th of Aug 1915, and had a total service of actually 4 years and 52 days, but much of the difference was spent in New Zealand Training.
Upper left in the opposite picture is the registered envelop which these certificates were sent in to the soldier, once home. Both are a mixture of cloth and waxed paper.
In Jan 1917, Mayer and Kean lost their contract with the New Zealand RSA to Cecil Montague Bay, a fellow Manufacturer at the time. Bay won a tender offered on the 10th of Jan 1918, to manufacture 3000 new badges. His badges also included a new safety ring to the back, which would allow a chain and safety pin to be attached. He had this "addition" registered as a RD or Registered Design under the number 1019, which is stamped to some of the ring, in minute detail.
RD 1019 is to Cecil Montague Bay (Jeweler and Engraver) , 66 Willis St, Wellington, NZ on the 10th of Jan 1918.
He also retro-fitted all existing stocks held by the NZ RSA for 3d per badge, with the ring, as papers at the time, show vets advertising for lost badges in the "Lost and Found" columns of the local papers.
RD 1019 is to Cecil Montague Bay (Jeweler and Engraver) , 66 Willis St, Wellington, NZ on the 10th of Jan 1918.
He also retro-fitted all existing stocks held by the NZ RSA for 3d per badge, with the ring, as papers at the time, show vets advertising for lost badges in the "Lost and Found" columns of the local papers.
On the 19th of September 1918, the NZ RSA announced that:
"Qualified nurses of the Colonial and Imperial Forces who have returned from active service shall be eligible for free honorary membership, and shall be supplied with a special badge issued under conditions identical with these governing the association badge" (Evening Post, Volume XCVI, Issue 70, 19 September 1918, Page 3).
- Opposite: Is a example of the large silver RSA badges presented to returning Nurses who were then members of the NZ RSA. Note the small silver and enamel cross to front. These are separately attached, and with the badge, being modified to allow the cross to sit flat to the front. A Nurses service number is always engraved to the back of the badge, no matter what size the badge is. There is also variation in the colour of the enamel to the cross to front.
Due to when these were offered in Sept 1918, all these large Nurses badges appear to be made by C M Bay and not Mayer and Kean, who were earlier with their larger badges.
Note that with the decrease in the badge size in Oct 1927, a small version of the Nurses badge was made with the cross, and they continue passed WW2, with a version for the Returned Services Association badge too. Also Queens crown RSA Nurses badge has been sighted.
Note too, a standard small "Soldiers" RSA Nurses badge has been sighted, with NO cross to front, but with the Nurses service number engraved to back.
Also announced on the 19th of September 1918 was that:
"All returned soldiers (officers and men) resident in New Zealand who have been honourably discharged, or are waiting honourable discharge, or have returned on duty or furlough and, who have, served in or with His Majesty's Forces Overseas during the great European war, shall be eligible for active membership" (Evening Post, Volume XCVI, Issue 70, 19 September 1918, Page 3).
This then allowed British, Australian, Canadian and other British Empire nations to join the NZ RSA. There seems to be no standard applied to their engraving, which could include their unit like “R.A.F.”, “R.F.A.”, “R.N.R.” or their British number on them.
The oldest sighted is to a Maori War's veteran with a “3 W.R.” to his badge and was with his New Zealand Wars medal that had been partially renamed, a combination of the impressing and engraving.
"Qualified nurses of the Colonial and Imperial Forces who have returned from active service shall be eligible for free honorary membership, and shall be supplied with a special badge issued under conditions identical with these governing the association badge" (Evening Post, Volume XCVI, Issue 70, 19 September 1918, Page 3).
- Opposite: Is a example of the large silver RSA badges presented to returning Nurses who were then members of the NZ RSA. Note the small silver and enamel cross to front. These are separately attached, and with the badge, being modified to allow the cross to sit flat to the front. A Nurses service number is always engraved to the back of the badge, no matter what size the badge is. There is also variation in the colour of the enamel to the cross to front.
Due to when these were offered in Sept 1918, all these large Nurses badges appear to be made by C M Bay and not Mayer and Kean, who were earlier with their larger badges.
Note that with the decrease in the badge size in Oct 1927, a small version of the Nurses badge was made with the cross, and they continue passed WW2, with a version for the Returned Services Association badge too. Also Queens crown RSA Nurses badge has been sighted.
Note too, a standard small "Soldiers" RSA Nurses badge has been sighted, with NO cross to front, but with the Nurses service number engraved to back.
Also announced on the 19th of September 1918 was that:
"All returned soldiers (officers and men) resident in New Zealand who have been honourably discharged, or are waiting honourable discharge, or have returned on duty or furlough and, who have, served in or with His Majesty's Forces Overseas during the great European war, shall be eligible for active membership" (Evening Post, Volume XCVI, Issue 70, 19 September 1918, Page 3).
This then allowed British, Australian, Canadian and other British Empire nations to join the NZ RSA. There seems to be no standard applied to their engraving, which could include their unit like “R.A.F.”, “R.F.A.”, “R.N.R.” or their British number on them.
The oldest sighted is to a Maori War's veteran with a “3 W.R.” to his badge and was with his New Zealand Wars medal that had been partially renamed, a combination of the impressing and engraving.
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- Above: A post Oct 1927 Returned Soldiers Association small badge in Silver to 34899 Private Harold Mcleod, who hailed from Dunedin, and was part of D Company, 20th Infantry Reinforcements. He went on to served 1 year and 10 days overseas with the Otago Infantry Regiment.
Sadly Harold was wounded on the 29th of June 1917 in France, with gunshot wounds to the left thigh, and found "medically unfit". He was sent home to New Zealand to be discharged on the 5th of April 1918. In 1940, Harold re-enlisted to do his bit for WW2. His service number this time was 564217. He got to the rank of Staff Sergeant and served with various units based in New Zealand including the National Reserve and the 3rd Otago's. He was discharged on the 10th of Oct 1944.
Note the date tab to top of badge for the year 1964, on the reverse picture can be seen how the tabs fold in and around the side of the crown. Again, the badge is marked Registered Design number or "RD 861" to top reverse. Below is the maker mark of Mayer & Kean or "M & K" stamped, indicating that Mayer and Kean took back the contract at some stage later. Harold's WW1 service number is stamped to back of "34899". Sadly the pin has broken off the brooch fitting to back.
The initial small Returned Soldiers Association badges were made by Harry Thomas Peat. He was a veteran himself, serving with the 1st Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade during WW1, with service number 23/1308. His badges can be found with the stamped to back of "H.T.P", under the RD number 861.
Sadly Harold was wounded on the 29th of June 1917 in France, with gunshot wounds to the left thigh, and found "medically unfit". He was sent home to New Zealand to be discharged on the 5th of April 1918. In 1940, Harold re-enlisted to do his bit for WW2. His service number this time was 564217. He got to the rank of Staff Sergeant and served with various units based in New Zealand including the National Reserve and the 3rd Otago's. He was discharged on the 10th of Oct 1944.
Note the date tab to top of badge for the year 1964, on the reverse picture can be seen how the tabs fold in and around the side of the crown. Again, the badge is marked Registered Design number or "RD 861" to top reverse. Below is the maker mark of Mayer & Kean or "M & K" stamped, indicating that Mayer and Kean took back the contract at some stage later. Harold's WW1 service number is stamped to back of "34899". Sadly the pin has broken off the brooch fitting to back.
The initial small Returned Soldiers Association badges were made by Harry Thomas Peat. He was a veteran himself, serving with the 1st Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade during WW1, with service number 23/1308. His badges can be found with the stamped to back of "H.T.P", under the RD number 861.
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In October 1941, the NZ RSA voted in favor of a name change, so no longer New Zealand Returned SOLDIERS Association, but instead New Zealand Returned SERVICES Association. This was seen as more inclusive, including both Men, Women and all services, i.e. Army, Navy and Air Force.
This also firmly dates badges by their title, with Returned Services Badges being associated with WW2 and beyond serving personnel. WW1 Soldiers seemed to continue to wear their NZ Returned Soldiers Association titled badges.
- Top Left & Right: Is a small Returned Services Association badge in Silver, size 21mm X 13mm to 19488 Pte. Albert John Arbuckle of the 6th Reserve Mechanical Transport Company. Albert hailed from Dunedin, and enlisted in 1941. The 6th RMT Coy saw service in Libya, Egypt, Tripolitania, Tunisia and Italy. No maker mark and note the pin on the brooch fitting has broken off.
- Bottom Left & Right: A similar small Returned Services Association badge in Silver, size 21mm X 13mm to 461393 John William Arthur Rogers. John was from Wellington, and enlisted in 1942. His RSA badge has the date tab for 1945/1946 in red to show that he was a paid member of those years. No maker mark and note again the pin on the brooch fitting has broken off. A common fault.
This also firmly dates badges by their title, with Returned Services Badges being associated with WW2 and beyond serving personnel. WW1 Soldiers seemed to continue to wear their NZ Returned Soldiers Association titled badges.
- Top Left & Right: Is a small Returned Services Association badge in Silver, size 21mm X 13mm to 19488 Pte. Albert John Arbuckle of the 6th Reserve Mechanical Transport Company. Albert hailed from Dunedin, and enlisted in 1941. The 6th RMT Coy saw service in Libya, Egypt, Tripolitania, Tunisia and Italy. No maker mark and note the pin on the brooch fitting has broken off.
- Bottom Left & Right: A similar small Returned Services Association badge in Silver, size 21mm X 13mm to 461393 John William Arthur Rogers. John was from Wellington, and enlisted in 1942. His RSA badge has the date tab for 1945/1946 in red to show that he was a paid member of those years. No maker mark and note again the pin on the brooch fitting has broken off. A common fault.
NZ Soldiers’ Association/Home Service League of NZ Incorporated
- Opposite: This is a very uncommon badge of the relatively short-lived (c.1919-1920) NZ Soldiers’ Association. Claiming support from “around New Zealand”, it seems to have been mostly based in Auckland. Largely made up of Home Service men (Officers and Men who had only seen service in New Zealand during WW1), and while stating that they “had no wish to clash with the Returned Soldier’s” they were set up to demand the same benefits that were available to members of the NZ RSA, including the right to claim the King’s Badge, better known as the Silver War Badge. Badges sighted have an association number engraved to the reverse prefixed with an “A”, presumably for Auckland. Likely made by Young & Co (Auckland) who were prolific makers of association badges.
The similarity to the name of the RSA meant that they were forced to change their name, leading to the formation of the Home Service League of NZ Incorporated who also produced a badge. - Opposite: A newspaper article from the Evening Post, Issue 74, 27th of March 1920, page 9, showing the difficulty the New Zealand Soldiers' Association in registering their organisations name. Instead "The Home Services League of New Zealand" was accepted. |
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- Opposite: A early silver member’s badge for the Home Service League of N.Z. Incorporated made by W R Bock (Wellington). Circa 1920. The League appears to have existed alongside the NZ Soldiers’ Association (see above for this group) for a period but the League appears to have taken over the Association at some point. The primary aims for both of these groupings were to militate for the rights of those servicemen who never left the shores of New Zealand but who still performed their military duties. The right to pensions and other benefits plus entitlement to claim the King’s Badge (or Silver War Badge) were some of their demands and both organisations presented petitions to Parliament and claimed to have the support of several M.P.s. These badges can sometimes be found with a service number engraved in the top left hand corner above the figure of the Kiwi but the few that do exist are not numbered. Size 45mm by 20mm.
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- Above: A meeting notice to the League, note that they indicate they were the "Late N.Z. Soldiers' Assocation". From the Auckland Star, Issue 255, 25th Oct 1920, page 10.
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Main Body Association
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- Opposite Left and Right: A badge for the NZEF Main Body Association. An example of a “special interest” group based around those with a defined military service. Made by Young & Co, High Street, Auckland. Early issue badges probably numbered like the example shown but the majority are unnumbered. Mostly in silver plate, but possibly also made in sterling silver and not inconceivable that a gold example may exist, for a Life Member.
Headquarters were in Wellington with the first reunion to be held in October, 1937. Documents show the Association being formed as an Incorporated Society on 26th April 1938. The last official reunion held in 1974 but in July, 1989 there were still eleven members "alive”. |
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- Note the opposite right badge has the soldiers details engraved to base. 12/270 CQMS Norman Veart of the 1st Batt Auckland Infantry Regiment, who served 4 years and 67 days overseas at Gallipoli (1915), Egypt (1915/1916) and France and the Western Front (1916, 1917, 1918).
Auckland Artillery Association
- Opposite: An association badge for the Auckland Artillery Association. Silver plate and enamel in artillery colours of red and blue. These badges have an association number stamped to the reverse. Made by Young & Co, Auckland, who seemed to have a particular interest in making badges for ex-servicemen’s associations. The earliest reunion that was mentioned in the newspapers of the time can be found in 1936 but as the article refers to this being the “seventh annual reunion” we can fairly assume that the association dates back to at least 1929. The badges, however, appear to have been created at a much later date as this December, 1939 article describes (see far right).
Stace Bennett was ex- Gunner 38874 Stacey Ernest Bennett |
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New Zealand Returned Soldier’s Ypres Club
- Opposite: A badge of the NZ Returned Soldier’s Ypres Club. Silver plate and enamel made by Young & Co, Auckland. Shows the lion of Ypres leaping over a field of crosses and the dates 1914-1918. Interesting to note that the graphic from the public notice of 22 March, 1938 does not have the letters “N Z” that surmount the badge. Was their removal deliberate or just a printing error? They could easily have been cut off Club badges when they were being made so are there two versions, one with NZ and one without?
Also the two public notices seem to use “club” and “association” interchangeably. The Club was set up under the Incorporated Societies Act (1908) on 21st March, 1939. Advertisements for the Club had appeared in newspapers in 1938 but it would appear that the Club had been established in around 1935. The Club enjoyed an uneasy relationship with the Auckland RSA as these two adverts hint at |
- Above: A notice added by the Ypres Returned Soldiers Club with regards to the NZ RSA (Auckland Star, Issue 68, 22th March 1938, page 20).
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The exact reasons for this dispute may never be known but may lie in the fact that a picture of a reunion dinner held in 1936 hosted the controversial broadcaster the Rev. C. G. Scrimgeour so was this a political, ideological or based on the title of the Club using the wording Returned Soldiers?
In any event, the Registrar of Companies attempted to contact the Club without success as they had not filed the required financial returns for some years. The Club was accordingly deregistered in July, 1943
- Opposite: A notice added by the NZ RSA with regards to the Ypres Returned Soldiers' Club (Auckland Star, Issue 66, 19th March 1938, page 23.
In any event, the Registrar of Companies attempted to contact the Club without success as they had not filed the required financial returns for some years. The Club was accordingly deregistered in July, 1943
- Opposite: A notice added by the NZ RSA with regards to the Ypres Returned Soldiers' Club (Auckland Star, Issue 66, 19th March 1938, page 23.
5 Battery, 1st NZEF
- Opposite: A reunion or association pin for 5 Battery, 1st NZEF. Silver and enamel made by Young & Co, Auckland. Young & Co clearly were the main suppliers of these badges for small associations as their stamp appears on the majority of them. It’s possible that the larger makers such as Bock or Mayer & Kean couldn’t be bothered with such small runs or that the associations were mostly based in Auckland and it was easier to use a firm based there. This badge could date from the 1930’s (when many reunions were taking place) or from a period in the 40’s.
- Far Right: A snippet from the Waikato Times (13th June 1941, Page 7) mentioning that the Fifth Battery of the N.Z.F.A held their reunion. |
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Auckland Mounted Rifles Association
- Opposite: A small enamel pin for the Auckland Mounted Rifles Association made by that prolific maker of such badges, Young & Co, Auckland. A comprehensive search for evidence of the existence of this association has failed to turn up any trace of it from newspapers archives yet there is mention of Associations for Otago, Canterbury and Wellington. Presumably they had some similar badge as well. This pin is likely to date from the 1930’s onwards but the slightly naïve depiction of the horse and rider might suggest that it wasn’t widely used.
NZEF Association
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A 1937 mention of the association refers to it as the NZEF Association Social Club in connection with Health Camps.
In September 1939 this would appear to be the last significant mention of the group.
- Opposite: A excerpt from the Auckland Star, Issue 231, 30th September 1939, page 9.
In September 1939 this would appear to be the last significant mention of the group.
- Opposite: A excerpt from the Auckland Star, Issue 231, 30th September 1939, page 9.
American & British Empire Services Sports - 1918
On the 7th of September, 1918, at Stamford Bridge in London, the American & British Empire Service Sport games were held. It included a number of Kiwi soldiers, who were either stationed in the UK at the time, on courses or recovering. A grainy film, taken by the Royal Air Force, shows the win by Corporal J Mason, of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force win his race of the mile in 4 minutes and 20 seconds. He missed out on the quarter (mile) by a foot, to a British Army Rifleman.
By all account the RAF team dominated many of the sports held on the day. Corporal Mason's exploits were reported nearly two months later in New Zealand, in the Evening Star, 15th of Nov 1918, page 6.
- Opposite: A small Silver (marked to back) pin badge to the 1918 American & British Empire Services Sports. A American and British flag to top, with symbols of Canada (maple leaf) and New Zealand (fern leaf) to base. Brooch fitting to back, with the impress "Sterling" hallmark. Size 22mm by 18.5mm.
By all account the RAF team dominated many of the sports held on the day. Corporal Mason's exploits were reported nearly two months later in New Zealand, in the Evening Star, 15th of Nov 1918, page 6.
- Opposite: A small Silver (marked to back) pin badge to the 1918 American & British Empire Services Sports. A American and British flag to top, with symbols of Canada (maple leaf) and New Zealand (fern leaf) to base. Brooch fitting to back, with the impress "Sterling" hallmark. Size 22mm by 18.5mm.
WW1 Recruitment Arm Badge
On the 19th of Feb, 1916, the New Zealand Government via the National Recruiting Board, introduced a coloured Arm-badge of Khaki with Red Crown to be worn by all men "who place their services at their country's disposal; whether they have been accepted for the Expeditionary Force and are waiting to be called up; or have been rejected; or have been exempted under the authority of the Hon. the Minister of Munitions upon the representation by their employer that they are experts required in the manufacturing or supply of the essentials of war or on duties connected with the equipment or maintenance of troops".
- Above: A WW1 New Zealand Khaki Arm-badge issued to enlisted kiwi's yet called up and in uniform. This might have been a move to stop the white-feather brigade from targeting men for not doing their bit. Size 60mm by 180mm (folded)
- Above: Inside the band is a oval "NZ Defence" with broadarrow stamp in black ink.
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- Above: Each Arm-badge was issued with a card certificate, which would have been numbered and containing the particulars of the bearer. The above I presume are certificate numbers which would need to match with the bearers card. The Arm-badge appears to have been re-issued a number of times.
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WW1 Discharge Badge
As WW1 progressed, it was realised that a badge or item of clothing was needed to mark out returning Soldiers who were coming home due to injury received during service overseas.
The first New Zealand soldiers returned to home in June 1915, and it was decided in Feb 1916 that a red armband or "Armlet" with a Gold crown and the letters "G" and "R" either side was to be worn by all soldiers that had been honorably discharged from the Army.
A card was also issued with the armlet, which was to be carried at all times when the armlet was worn. This Card of Authority to Wear was referred to as a B.R. 134 by the Army.
The first New Zealand soldiers returned to home in June 1915, and it was decided in Feb 1916 that a red armband or "Armlet" with a Gold crown and the letters "G" and "R" either side was to be worn by all soldiers that had been honorably discharged from the Army.
A card was also issued with the armlet, which was to be carried at all times when the armlet was worn. This Card of Authority to Wear was referred to as a B.R. 134 by the Army.
- Above: A "B.R. 134" to 43780 Trooper William MacMorland who sadly developed bronchitis on the voyage from New Zealand to Australia (which would then have then taken him by Australian Transport to the Middle East). He was discharged as "No longer physically fit", and on his discharge certificate (opposite) it records that he was issued the above "B.R. 134" and Armlet (bottom center in the opposite image - typed).
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These Armlets were unpopular with the men at the time, due to look and also practicality, with many instead wearing their large Silver RSA badge with pride on their lapel to show that they had done their bit.
In New Zealand, on the 1st of March 1918, the Silver War Badge was adopted from the British as the badge going forward to show that the Soldier had been honorably discharged.
Overseas, those New Zealanders who had been discharged in the UK, received theirs in late 1917, for example, Spr 28015 Herbert (Jack) John Jelley of the New Zealand Engineers was confirmed on the 8th of Dec 1917:
In New Zealand, on the 1st of March 1918, the Silver War Badge was adopted from the British as the badge going forward to show that the Soldier had been honorably discharged.
Overseas, those New Zealanders who had been discharged in the UK, received theirs in late 1917, for example, Spr 28015 Herbert (Jack) John Jelley of the New Zealand Engineers was confirmed on the 8th of Dec 1917:
- Above: A page from the British New Zealand SWB roll, which was kept in London, and records the badges issued to Kiwi's who were discharged in the UK. Some pages to New Zealand Officers also exist and these both are available via British heritage sites subject to a fee. New Zealand's SWB roll is currently lost, and there is no current way of tracing NZ issued SWB back to the person they were issued to. On very rare occasions, numbers have been recorded on Soldiers discharge certificates, in the margin, and this can be viewed on-line, within their service record. But this is a exception, rather than a rule, with it just being down to some Army clerk being extra efficient.
- Above: A Silver War Badge to 3/3472 Pte. Martin Joseph Reidy with the words "For King and Empire, Services Rendered". With Crown and "GRI" or Georgius Rex Imperator (George, King and Emperor).
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- Above: Back of Martin's S.W.B. It shows the prefix used on all New Zealand issued S.W.B's of "NZ" and then a number, which in this case is "NZ26349". Attached is a vertical pin, with sadly the hook missing. Earlier issued S.W.B have a horizontal pin, but this was found to break, so a vertical pin was introduced instead.
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- Above: Is Martin's Victory medal, issued to him on the 2nd of Feb 1922. It is impressed with Martin's details to rim as follows "3/3472 Pte. M. J. Reidy N.Z.E.F.
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- Above: a small silver (not marked) brooched collar badge to the 28th Reinforcements, owned by 3/3472 Pte. Martin Joseph Reidy. No maker marks to back.
- Opposite: A photo taken somewhere in France of 3/3472 Pte. Martin Joseph Reidy and his Sister, 22/292 Nurse Mary Anne Reidy (Registration number 1582). Martin was part of the New Zealand Medical Corps, while his Sister Mary, part of the New Zealand Army Nursing Service. |
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Martin started his service on the 10th of April 1917 and was part of the 28th Reinforcement draft (hence the above badge). He proceeded overseas on the 26th of October 1917 about the H.M.N.Z.T 90 (His Majesty's New Zealand Troop Ship number 90), attached to the Ships Hospital. He arrived on the 19th of Aug 1917 and was initially attached to NZ Medical Corps Depo at Aldershot in the UK.
On the 7th of Nov that year he was attached to the 1st Field Ambulance in the field, in France.
Sadly on the 28th of March 1918, he received a gunshot wound to the right shoulder and left leg. Likely this will be shell shrapnel, and this entitled him to the above SWB.
Evacuated from France to England, he spent the rest of the war recovering. Marked as medically unfit, he was placed on the NZ Roll, but didn't return to New Zealand until 4th of July 1919.
Mary was already a Nurse, prior to the War at Hamilton Hospital. She joined the New Zealand Army Nursing Service on the 17th of Jan 1916, and left on board the Hospital Ship SS Mahnoe, which was NZ's Hospital Ship No. 1. Mary served in Egypt (1916) and France at No. 1 New Zealand Stationary Hospital at Amiens (later moved to Hazebrouck). On the 19 August 1919, Mary was "Brought to the notice of the Secretary of State for War" for outstanding service.
On the 7th of Nov that year he was attached to the 1st Field Ambulance in the field, in France.
Sadly on the 28th of March 1918, he received a gunshot wound to the right shoulder and left leg. Likely this will be shell shrapnel, and this entitled him to the above SWB.
Evacuated from France to England, he spent the rest of the war recovering. Marked as medically unfit, he was placed on the NZ Roll, but didn't return to New Zealand until 4th of July 1919.
Mary was already a Nurse, prior to the War at Hamilton Hospital. She joined the New Zealand Army Nursing Service on the 17th of Jan 1916, and left on board the Hospital Ship SS Mahnoe, which was NZ's Hospital Ship No. 1. Mary served in Egypt (1916) and France at No. 1 New Zealand Stationary Hospital at Amiens (later moved to Hazebrouck). On the 19 August 1919, Mary was "Brought to the notice of the Secretary of State for War" for outstanding service.
WW2 Volunteer Badge
At the outbreak of WW2, there was a requirement (like WW1) to distinguish whether someone had "volunteered" for service in the New Zealand Defense Force, or not. This was a attempt to again stop the unwanted "white feather" brigade chasing those who looked right for doing their bit of the country, but were thought to be shirking.
It was introduced on the 31st of May 1940, and was given for three categories
- Those who had volunteered for New Zealand Army, RNZAF or New Zealand Naval Service, but had yet to be called up.
- Those who had volunteered, but had been rejected on health grounds, or rejected due to their work profession been deemed "essential"
- Those who had been honorably discharged from the New Zealand Armed Forces.
This badge was issued with a small paper certificate, which needed to be carried, and present when requested by any Defense Force Officer, Military Police or Civilian Police. The certificate number matched the number stamped to back.
- Opposite: A gilt brass and enamel button hole badge for a New Zealand Defense Force Volunteer of WW2. Maker marked to back to "MK" in a circle, for Mayer & Kean. Stamped with the number "11150". Size 27mm by 16mm.
It was introduced on the 31st of May 1940, and was given for three categories
- Those who had volunteered for New Zealand Army, RNZAF or New Zealand Naval Service, but had yet to be called up.
- Those who had volunteered, but had been rejected on health grounds, or rejected due to their work profession been deemed "essential"
- Those who had been honorably discharged from the New Zealand Armed Forces.
This badge was issued with a small paper certificate, which needed to be carried, and present when requested by any Defense Force Officer, Military Police or Civilian Police. The certificate number matched the number stamped to back.
- Opposite: A gilt brass and enamel button hole badge for a New Zealand Defense Force Volunteer of WW2. Maker marked to back to "MK" in a circle, for Mayer & Kean. Stamped with the number "11150". Size 27mm by 16mm.
WW2 Discharge Badge
Like WW1, New Zealand followed Britain's example again and awarded a badge to its discharged Soldiers of WW2. The "Kings Badge" was initially issued to servicemen who, as a result of their injuries, had been discharged from active service. In Britain, they extended its issue to also merchant navy, fishing fleets, coastguards, police, members of the Civil Defence Services, and the Home Guard.
Unlike the British examples, New Zealand did mark the back of their badges with a Serial number. The badge was issued with a with a paper certificate.
It came with two different fittings to back, a buttonhole fitting for men, or a brooch fitting for women.
Unlike the British examples, New Zealand did mark the back of their badges with a Serial number. The badge was issued with a with a paper certificate.
It came with two different fittings to back, a buttonhole fitting for men, or a brooch fitting for women.
- Above: Two New Zealand made "Kings Badge". To front is the cypher GRI for "Georgius Rex Imperator", and refers to King-Emperor George VI. With Kings crown to top and "For Loyal Service" around the outside wreath.
Size is 25mm diameter. |
- Above: The backs of the opposite badges. Left is a brooch fitting with the number "919" stamped to back. The right has a buttonhole fitting, which is stamped "2805". Both are marked "M & K, W" for Mayer & Kean, Wellington. The Men's version also has the Mayer and Kean logo stamped to it. Both are silver, but are not marked as such.
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New Zealand Army Band
The New Zealand Army has always had bands and musicians associated with Regiments and its bases, since Volunteer times.
Much of what they wore early on was based on the British badges and insignia.
Much of what they wore early on was based on the British badges and insignia.
- Above: A Victorian crowned Bandsman's badge in white metal to center on a gilt brass background. No maker mark to back.
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- Above: A similar Victorian crowned Bandsman's badge in white metal to center on a gilt brass background (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A reverse colours Victorian crowned Bandsman's badge in gilt brass to center on a white metal background (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A similar Victorian crowned Bandsman's badge in white metal or silver/silver plate (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A Victorian crowned Bandsman's badge in silver plate or chrome. Two looped lugs to back, no maker mark.
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- Above: A Kings crowned Bandsman's badge in white metal to center on a gilt brass background (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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Above, Top Left: A darkened brass, Queen Victorian Crowned Bandsman's' Cap badge, worn pre 1902.
Above, Top Right: Similar Bandsman's' Cap badge, but with Kings Crown and worn post 1902. Above, Bottom Left: A Kings Crown Bandsman's' Cap badge, but this time with no fretting to the center of the Lyre. Above, Bottom Right: A variation again, but this time personalised for the New Zealand Field Artillery Band, which has been engraved on a small plaque of silver (not marked) to center of Lyre. - Opposite: The two largest training camps in New Zealand during WW1 had their own bands. Opposite is a Cap badge to the Featherston Camp Trumpet Band. Two looped wire lugs to back in a North/South configuration. Trentham also had its own Camp band and badge. Which I do not have. Size of the FCTB badge is 32mm by 34mm. |
- Above: A close up of the silver plaque to center of the Bandsman's' Cap badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery Band.
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- Opposite: To back on the end of one of the trumpets of the FCTB badges is the RD or Registered Design number of "957 RD".
It has been recorded that the Silver version of the FCTB badge has a "958 RD" number.
RD or Registered Design number 957 & 958 is to Trumpet Major Frederick Charles Chegwin, Featherston Military Camp, on the 26th of March 1917.
It has been recorded that the Silver version of the FCTB badge has a "958 RD" number.
RD or Registered Design number 957 & 958 is to Trumpet Major Frederick Charles Chegwin, Featherston Military Camp, on the 26th of March 1917.
During WW1, with the greatly expanded New Zealand Army, bands were formed in Training Camps and within Reinforcement drafts.
- Above: A large framed reinforcement frame with a Lyre sweated to to center. RD or Registered Design number "RD812" to front. To back are two hex type brass lugs, size 52mm by 43mm.
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- Above: A small matching collar to the opposite cap badge in 2 piece, gilt brass. Reinforcement frame with a RD or Registered Design number "RD812" to front. To back are two hex type brass lugs, size 32mm by 28mm.
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- Above: A 34th reinforcement frame, used as a generic Cap badge for further drafts. It has had the "NZ" removed to the center, and a Lyre sweated on. Two hex type brass lugs to back, with size being 43mm by 36mm.
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RD or Registered Design number "RD812" was to Harry Gustav Mayer & Francis Douglas Kean (Artistic Engineers and Die Seters), trading as Mayer & Kean, 4 Willis Street, Wellington, N.Z. on the 6th of December 1915.
- Above: A 34th reinforcement frame, used as a generic Collar badge for further drafts. It has had the "NZ" removed to the center, and a Lyre sweated on. A brooch fitting to back, with extra gilt applied. Size is 33mm by 26mm.
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- Above: A reinforcement Collar frame used around the 13th draft. It has had its center removed, and a Lyre sweated on. Two copper wire lugs to back, with size being 30mm by 28mm.
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- Above: A Cap badge worn by the 34th Reinforcements and onwards, with the "NZ" removed and a separate Lyre from a sleeve trade badge attached to center (Ian Hamilton Collection).
- Opposite: A Cap and Collar badge set worn by the 34th Reinforcements and onwards, with a separate brass Lyre attached to center (Ian Hamilton Collection). |
- Above: A large Cap badge in two piece, with a separate brass Lyre sweated onto a Reinforcement frame (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A silver, two piece reinforcement framed Cap badge to a Bandsman. Separate Lyre attached to the center of the frame. Note it has a brooch fitting to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A slightly worn postcard of Sling Camp Orchestra (UK) dated the 1st of May 1918. All the above chaps appear to be wearing 2nd (South Canterbury) Infantry Regiment Collar badges, accept for the Officer, seated in the center (who's badges I can't make out). Note the Cello and Violin player on the left, seated. Both have Kings crowned Musicians badges to their right sleeves, above their rank stripes. Message in pencil to back says "Curly at far L picture. Thought it may have been better. Best Love Charles XXXXX".
- Above: A Buglers Sleeve badge in embroidered thread on a khaki wool background (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A Drummers Sleeve badge in embroidered thread on a khaki wool background (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A Cap to a Bandsman or Musician from around WW2 and the 2NZEF. A Onwards badges frame has had its "NZ" to center removed and a Lyre sweated onto the frame.
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- Above: A similar Collar to a Bandsman or Musician from around WW2 and the 2NZEF.
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- Opposite Top: A Bandsman's Helmet Plate to the 6th (Hauraki) Infantry Regiment. This is a cast white metal badge, hand-painted with two lugs to back and the maker initials of "PAC" to back.
- Opposite Bottom: A Bandsman's Helmet Plate to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Again, cast white metal, with two lugs to back and is numbered "56".
- Opposite Bottom: A Bandsman's Helmet Plate to the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. Again, cast white metal, with two lugs to back and is numbered "56".
A pair of cloth and embroidered shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Band.
- Top: A rather faded Yellow thread on a Red background to The Band of the New Zealand Army.
- Bottom: A more modern Yellow thread on a Red background to the New Zealand Army Band.
- Top: A rather faded Yellow thread on a Red background to The Band of the New Zealand Army.
- Bottom: A more modern Yellow thread on a Red background to the New Zealand Army Band.
Marksman's Badge.
- Above: A Marksman Proficiency Sleeve Badge in gilt brass. Four wire looped lugs to back, with much of the gilt finish now dull with age. No maker mark.
Note this badge was also worn as mark of "appointment", on upper right arm, for qualified instructors |
- Above: A Marksman Proficiency Sleeve Badge in embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker mark (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A similar Marksman Proficiency Sleeve Badge in embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker mark, with size being 71mm by 75mm.
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- Above: A similar Marksman Proficiency Sleeve Badge in embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker mark. Note the differences in colour of thread (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: Another variation of Marksman Proficiency Sleeve Badge in embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker mark (Ian Hamilton).
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- Above: A pre WW1 "Prize" Proficiency badge for "best shot company, squadron, band etc.", with 5 pointed star above crossed rifles. Embroidered thread on khaki wool backing. No maker mark to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- A pre-WW1 "Prize" Proficiency badge possible worn by Cadets or Volunteers, but facing to the left, which is unusual. Embroidered thread on a khaki background. No maker mark (Ian Hamilton Collection).
New Zealand National Reserve.
The New Zealand National Reserve, was a civilian home front organisation which had existed prior to WW1.
It formed with the New Zealand Defence Act of 1909, and was based on the UK Reserve system.
It was open to all Volunteers who had had previous Military service or were members of organisations such as the Red Cross and St Johns Ambulance.
Regional units were set up throughout New Zealand, and these had their own badge.
They came in two forms, with a button-hole attachment to back, or a brooch fitting.
The brooch fitting enabled the Female members to attache it to their blouse, but also it allowed the badge to be worn as a Cap badge.
Active members were coloured gilt crown within a enamel border, while honorary members were a silver crown within a enamel border.
It formed with the New Zealand Defence Act of 1909, and was based on the UK Reserve system.
It was open to all Volunteers who had had previous Military service or were members of organisations such as the Red Cross and St Johns Ambulance.
Regional units were set up throughout New Zealand, and these had their own badge.
They came in two forms, with a button-hole attachment to back, or a brooch fitting.
The brooch fitting enabled the Female members to attache it to their blouse, but also it allowed the badge to be worn as a Cap badge.
Active members were coloured gilt crown within a enamel border, while honorary members were a silver crown within a enamel border.
- Above: A gilt and enamel button-hole badge to the National Reserve Auckland New Zealand. Numbered "313" to back and marked "Rubin Watts"
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- Above: A slight variation in gilt and enamel button-hole badge to the National Reserve Auckland New Zealand. Numbered "2413" to back and marked "Rubin Watts". Size 32mm by 25mm.
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- Above Left: A gilt and enamel button-hole badge to the New Zealand Defence Rifles. No maker mark to back.
- Above Right: A gilt and enamel button-hole badge to the National Reserve NZ Railways. Maker mark to "Bock, Wellington" |
- Above Left: A silver and enamel brooched badge to the National Reserve Wellington New Zealand. Maker stamped to back to "Bock Wellington".
- Above Right: Another silver and enamel brooched badge to the National Reserve Wellington New Zealand. No maker mark to back, and note the darker blue enamel. |
- Above: A gilt and enamel badge to the National Reserve Wellington New Zealand. No maker mark to back, and its had its button-hole fitting replaced with a brooch fitting. Size 30mm by 24mm.
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- Above: A gilt and enamel button-hole badge to the G7 Gisborne Branch in the Wellington Military District. Stamped to back is "BOCK WELLINGTON". Size 29mm by 25mm.
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- Above Left: A silver and enamel brooched badge to the G7 Napier Branch in the Wellington Military District. No maker mark to back.
- Above Right: A gilt button-hole badge to the G7B Ruahine Branch in the Wellington Military District. No maker mark to back. |
- Above Left: A gilt and enamel button-hole badge to the National Reserve Wellington. No maker mark to back.
- Above Right: A gilt and enamel button-hole badge to the National Reserve Marlborough. Maker impressed to back to "Bock Wellington". |
Others National Reserve badges known:
Hamilton, Cambridge, Hawera, Hawera DRC (Defence Rifle Club with blue, red and green boarders), Patea, Palmerston North,
Well. Mil. Dist, G6, Oroua,
Well. Mil. Dist, G7, Wairoa,
Well. Mil. Dist, G7, Hastings,
Well. Mil. Dist, G7a,
Well. Mil. Dist, G7c, Gisborne,
Greymouth, Southland (blue border), Southland (maroon border) Women’s National Reserve - Canterbury, Post and Telegraph.
Note Officers of the National Reserves attached rank stars to the top and sides of their badge (I have seen examples in the past come up for sale), while Warrant Officers and below, wore chevrons to their uniform sleeves. Many units did NOT adopt a uniform as it was beyond many of its members pockets. But many did adopt a civilian Cap, and wore it with their badge.
The above information was taken from Barry O'Sullivans article "National Reserve badges of WW1".
Hamilton, Cambridge, Hawera, Hawera DRC (Defence Rifle Club with blue, red and green boarders), Patea, Palmerston North,
Well. Mil. Dist, G6, Oroua,
Well. Mil. Dist, G7, Wairoa,
Well. Mil. Dist, G7, Hastings,
Well. Mil. Dist, G7a,
Well. Mil. Dist, G7c, Gisborne,
Greymouth, Southland (blue border), Southland (maroon border) Women’s National Reserve - Canterbury, Post and Telegraph.
Note Officers of the National Reserves attached rank stars to the top and sides of their badge (I have seen examples in the past come up for sale), while Warrant Officers and below, wore chevrons to their uniform sleeves. Many units did NOT adopt a uniform as it was beyond many of its members pockets. But many did adopt a civilian Cap, and wore it with their badge.
The above information was taken from Barry O'Sullivans article "National Reserve badges of WW1".
- Above Left: A silver and enamel brooched badge to the National Reserve Canterbury. No maker mark to back.
- Above Right: A gilt and enamel button-hole badge to the National Reserve Otago. Maker marked to back to "Moller"
- Above Right: A gilt and enamel button-hole badge to the National Reserve Otago. Maker marked to back to "Moller"
New Zealand's Marine Department.
In 1863, New Zealand's Marine Board was set up as one of the first New Zealand Government Agencies to ensure Maritime Safety around New Zealand long coastline.
In 1866 the Marine Board was disestablished and the Marine Department was set up. Its goal was to "protecting the maritime transport sequence and marine environment within New Zealand and maintaining safety and security".
Among its duties was to maintain all lighthouses around New Zealand Coast. But in 1907, it acquired the 805 ton Royal Navy gun boat HMS Sparrow. This was converted into a training ship and renamed NZS Amokura.
Over the next 14 years 527 boys trained in Amokura, 25 of them going on to naval service and most of the others into the merchant marine.
In 1972 the Marine Department was absorbed into the New Zealand Ministry of Transport, which went on to set up what is now the modern day Maritime New Zealand.
- Opposite: A cloth and bullion thread Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Marine Department. No maker label to back.
In 1866 the Marine Board was disestablished and the Marine Department was set up. Its goal was to "protecting the maritime transport sequence and marine environment within New Zealand and maintaining safety and security".
Among its duties was to maintain all lighthouses around New Zealand Coast. But in 1907, it acquired the 805 ton Royal Navy gun boat HMS Sparrow. This was converted into a training ship and renamed NZS Amokura.
Over the next 14 years 527 boys trained in Amokura, 25 of them going on to naval service and most of the others into the merchant marine.
In 1972 the Marine Department was absorbed into the New Zealand Ministry of Transport, which went on to set up what is now the modern day Maritime New Zealand.
- Opposite: A cloth and bullion thread Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Marine Department. No maker label to back.
New Zealand Railways
The Railways started in New Zealand in 1863, with the Ferrymead Railway, but it wasn't until the 1880's that it truly became a national form of transport.
New Zealand Railways (NZR) or New Zealand Government Railways was formed as a Department in 1880 and then a Corporation from 1982. It was privitised in the 1990's and then became a state owned enterprise again in 2008. Today its is called KiwiRail.
Here are some of its buttons and button makers.
New Zealand Railways (NZR) or New Zealand Government Railways was formed as a Department in 1880 and then a Corporation from 1982. It was privitised in the 1990's and then became a state owned enterprise again in 2008. Today its is called KiwiRail.
Here are some of its buttons and button makers.
- Above Left: A 23mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Note Queen Victoria Crown. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A 16mm, copper (possibly silver plate), fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Queen Victoria Crown, with maker mark of "Pereva et Prevale", with a picture of a Swan over water. |
- Above Left: A 24mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Note Kings Crown (post 1902), with maker mark to "H. B. Craighead Ltd, Wellington".
- Above Right: A 16mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Note Kings Crown (post 1902), with maker mark to "H. B. Craighead Ltd, Wellington". |
- Above Left: A 24mm, silver plated copper, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "Made in England".
- Above Center: A 16mm, frosted white metal, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "Made in England".
- Above Right: A 16mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "Made in England".
- Above Center: A 16mm, frosted white metal, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "Made in England".
- Above Right: A 16mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "Made in England".
Huia Bruce Craighead started his business around 1932 in Wellington, with his family originating from Ashburton.
- Above Left: A 24mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "A Levy, Wellington".
- Above Right: A 16mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "A Levy, Wellington". |
- Above Left: A 24mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "A Levy Ltd, Wellington".
- Above Center: A 24mm, chromed brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "A Levy Ltd, Wellington". - Above Right: A 16mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "A Levy Ltd, Wellington". |
Abraham Levy (1861-1918) was a tailor, based in Wellington, supplying uniforms from around 1913. There has been take over the years that he also produced and marked New Zealand Force buttons, but I have yet to see one. Certainly he put his mark to New Zealand Railways buttons and I have a Officers New Zealand Army Service Corps WW2 tunic with his makers label to its collar (see NZ Corps 1).
- Above: A 24mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the New Zealand Railways. Maker marked to "Special Quality".
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- Above:A 24mm , anodised aluminium button to the New Zealand Railways Corporation. This logo was used from 1982 to 1990. Maker marked to "Firmin London".
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Tram Lines and Transport Companies.
- Above: A 23mm, white metal, fixed shank button to the Auckland Transport Board. Worn 1928 to 1964. A intertwining "ATB". Maker marked to "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne".
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- Above: A 23mm, white metal, flexible shank button with brass backing to the Auckland Tramways Company. A intertwining "ATC". Maker marked to "Wm Dowler & Sons Ltd, Birmh".
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- Above: A gilt brass (now toned) fixed shank, 23mm button to the Christchurch Tramway Board? A intertwining "CTB". Maker marked to "Fast Shanks".
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- Opposite: A white metal, fixed shank, 23mm button to Dunedin City Corporation Tramways. Brass backed, with brass fixed shank. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
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- Opposite: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 23mm button to the Wanganui Electric Tramways. A intertwining "WTC". Maker marked to "Buttons Ltd, Bham (cross swords) Trade Mark".
Whanganui had electric trams from Dec 1908 to Jan 1950, when they were then replaced by Buses. The City has restored some of it lines as a tourist attraction in recent years. |
Other.
- Above: A pair of gilt brass, fixed shank, 23mm and 19mm buttons to the Auckland Harbour Board? Unsure, so if someone can help it would be much appreciated. Intertwining "AHB" with a brass backing, but no maker mark to either.
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- Above: A pressed, black bone, fixed shank, 22mm button to the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron. Maker mark to back to "Firmin London".
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- Above: A pressed, black bone, fixed shank, 16mm button to the New Zealand Power Boat Association (N.Z.P.B.A). No maker mark to back.
The N.Z.P.B.A existed prior to WW1 and there are references in papers at the time that their members were associated with the NZ Forces Motor Corps, and certainly members joined the Royal Navy and Royal Naval Volunteer Reserves. |
- Opposite: A pair of unknown purpose buttons with Edward VII cypher to front in gilt brass.
- Left: A 21mm fixed shank, gilt brass button. Maker marked to "A Levy, Wellington" to back.
- Right: A 16mm fixed shank, gilt brass button. Maker marked to "A Levy, Wellington" to back.
- Left: A 21mm fixed shank, gilt brass button. Maker marked to "A Levy, Wellington" to back.
- Right: A 16mm fixed shank, gilt brass button. Maker marked to "A Levy, Wellington" to back.
New Zealand Shipping Company.
The New Zealand Shipping Company was established in 1873, and was set up by New Zealand businessmen to counter the British dominance of the Shaw Savill Line (London to Auckland) and Albion line (Scotland to Dunedin). They would ship passengers and freight for the next 100 years, finally being taken over by the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O) in 1973.
In WW1 it lost:
- Hurunui (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - torpedoed by U-94 on the 18th May 1918.
- Kaipara - stopped and sunk by SMS Kaiser Wilhelm der Grosse on the 16th of August 1914.
- Otaki (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - sunk by SMS Mowe on the 10th of March 1917.
- Rotorua - torpedoed by SM UC-17 on the 22nd of March 1917.
- Turakina - torpedoed by U-86 on the 13th of August 1917.
In WW1 it lost:
- Hurunui (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - torpedoed by U-94 on the 18th May 1918.
- Kaipara - stopped and sunk by SMS Kaiser Wilhelm der Grosse on the 16th of August 1914.
- Otaki (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - sunk by SMS Mowe on the 10th of March 1917.
- Rotorua - torpedoed by SM UC-17 on the 22nd of March 1917.
- Turakina - torpedoed by U-86 on the 13th of August 1917.
In WW2 it lost:
- Hurunui (3rd NZSC ship with that name) - torpedoed by U-93 on the 15th October 1940.
- Opawa - sunk by U-106 on the 6th of February 1942.
- Otaio - sunk by U558 on the 28th of August 1941.
- Paiko (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - torpedoed by U-107 on the 18th of May 1941.
- Rangitane - sunk by German raiders Komet & Orion on the 26th of November 1940.
- Remuera - sunk by torpedo delivered by aircraft on the 26th of August 1940.
- Rotorua (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - torpedoed by U-96 on the 11th of December 1940.
- Turakina (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - sunk by German raider Orion on the 20th of August 1940.
- Hurunui (3rd NZSC ship with that name) - torpedoed by U-93 on the 15th October 1940.
- Opawa - sunk by U-106 on the 6th of February 1942.
- Otaio - sunk by U558 on the 28th of August 1941.
- Paiko (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - torpedoed by U-107 on the 18th of May 1941.
- Rangitane - sunk by German raiders Komet & Orion on the 26th of November 1940.
- Remuera - sunk by torpedo delivered by aircraft on the 26th of August 1940.
- Rotorua (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - torpedoed by U-96 on the 11th of December 1940.
- Turakina (2nd NZSC ship with that name) - sunk by German raider Orion on the 20th of August 1940.
Above: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 23mm button to the New Zealand Shipping Company (NZSCo.). Maker marked to back to "G. Haysom Ld, Fenchurch St, London.
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In 1912, the New Zealand Shipping Company took over the Federal Steam Navigation Company.
Above Left: A white metal, fixed shank 21mm button featuring both the New Zealand Shipping Company and Federal Steam Navigation Company flag emblems. Maker marked to "Miller, Rayner & Haysom Ld". Above Right: Similar 21mm, fixed shank, white metal button. Maker mark to "Baker & Co Ld, London". |
- Above Left: A combined, fixed shank, 21mm gilt brass button. Maker marked to "Miller, Rayner & Haysom Ld, Rd No.681006".
- Above Right: A combined, fixed shank, 21mm gilt brass button. Maker marked to "Firmin London". |
Union Steam Ship Company.
The Union Steam Ship Company of New Zealand Limited, was once one of the largest private employers in New Zealand.
It began in Dunedin in 1875 by James Mills, with a Scottish backer and operated throughout the coastline of New Zealand, with regular routes to Australia and Canada.
It was bought by Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O) in 1917. It was then on-sold to a Australian consortium in 1972, and finished up in 2000 after some 125 years in business.
It began in Dunedin in 1875 by James Mills, with a Scottish backer and operated throughout the coastline of New Zealand, with regular routes to Australia and Canada.
It was bought by Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O) in 1917. It was then on-sold to a Australian consortium in 1972, and finished up in 2000 after some 125 years in business.
- Above: A Officers peaked cap band and Cap badge to the Union Steam Ship Company. A gilt metal badge, with enamel to center on a black background with gold bullion thread wreath. No maker mark to either back of badge or cloth band.
- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 25mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Firmin & Sons Ld London".
- Above Center: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 22mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Firmin & Sons Ld London". - Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 16mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Firmin & Sons Ld London". |
- Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 21mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Sword Trade Make Mark (with crossed swords) Made in England".
- Above Center: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 22mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Special Quality". - Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 22mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. No maker marked to back. |
- Above Left:A gilt brass, fixed shank, 22mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. This has a more angled edge to back edge compared to the next button. Maker marked to back to "Firmin London".
- Above 2nd Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 22mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Firmin London". - Above 2nd Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 18mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Firmin London". - Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 16mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. This has a more angled edge to back edge compared to the previous button. Maker marked to back to "Firmin London". |
- Above Left: - A gilt brass, bolt thread shank, 16mm Officers Shoulder Strap button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Firmin London". The thread is approximately 7mm long.
- Above Right: A gilt brass, bolt thread shank, 16mm Officers Shoulder Strap button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Firmin London". The thread is approximately 9mm long. Note the darkening behind the flag to make it "stand out". |
- Above Left: A white metal with brass backing, fixed shank, 22mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Firmin London".
- Above Right: A white metal with brass backing, fixed shank, 18mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Buttons Ltd, Bham (and crossed swords)". |
- Above Left: A white metal, with brass backing, fixed shank, 19mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker marked to back to "Special Quality".
- Above Center: A white metal, with brass backing, fixed shank, 19mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. No maker marked to back. - Above Right: A white metal, with brass backing, fixed shank, 16mm button to the Union Steam Ship Company. Maker mark can not be made out. Possibly "Firmin London". |
- Above: A shoulder board pair to a Chief Engineer with Union Steam Ship Company. Both I material back, with a tie at one end and a sew-in USS Co button at the other. Both buttons are maker marked to "Firmin London".
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- Above: A pair of cuff titles to a Chief Engineer with Union Steam Ship Company. The colour between the braid is in fact purple, but the light in the photo show it as a blue colour. No maker mark.
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Northern Steamship Company.
The Northern Steam Ship Company Limited, served initially the northern half of the North Island of New Zealand from 1881 to 1974. It started out due to very few good roads, linking early coastal settlements in New Zealand. But sadly it over time, as road and rail links improved, it lost its market, until finally the last NSS ship berthed at Dunedin on the 8th of December 1974.
- Above Left: A 23mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the Northern Steamship Company. Maker marked to back to "Sword Trade Make Mark, Make in England".
- Above Right: A 16mm, gilt brass, fixed shank button to the Northern Steamship Company. Maker marked to back to "Sword Trade Make Mark, Make in England". |
- Above Left: A 23mm, white metal, fixed shank button to the Northern Steamship Company. Maker marked to back to "Sword Trade Make Mark, Make in England".
- Above Middle: A 18mm, white metal, fixed shank button to the Northern Steamship Company. Maker marked to back to "Sword Trade Make Mark, Make in England". - Above Right: A 15mm, white metal, fixed shank button to the Northern Steamship Company. Maker marked to back to "Sword Trade Make Mark, Make in England". |
Other Countries Shipping Buttons.
- Below: The Shaw Savill Line was a British company, was set up in 1858 to transport produce and people between Great Britain and New Zealand.
In 1860, a Glasgow based shipping line also formed, called the Albion Shipping Company, which was managed by P Henderson & Company.
In 1882, the two companies merged to form the Shaw, Savill & Albion Line.
It went onto run passengers and freight between Great Britain, Australia and New Zealand until 1975.
In 1860, a Glasgow based shipping line also formed, called the Albion Shipping Company, which was managed by P Henderson & Company.
In 1882, the two companies merged to form the Shaw, Savill & Albion Line.
It went onto run passengers and freight between Great Britain, Australia and New Zealand until 1975.
- Opposite Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 21mm button to the Shaw, Savill & Albion Line. Maker marked to "Miller & Sons, London & Southampton".
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 19mm button to the Shaw, Savill & Albion Line. Maker marked to "Firmin London".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 17mm button to the Shaw, Savill & Albion Line. Maker marked to "Monneey, London & Sutton".
- Opposite Middle: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 19mm button to the Shaw, Savill & Albion Line. Maker marked to "Firmin London".
- Opposite Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank, 17mm button to the Shaw, Savill & Albion Line. Maker marked to "Monneey, London & Sutton".
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- Above: Two pages from a small autograph book which belonged to 2/3035 Pte. Frederick Thomas Lindroos of the New Zealand Field Artillery. He was part of the 11th Reinforcement draft to the N.Z.F.A, and then served oversea in France and the Western Front from Sept 1916. He happily survived the war and returned via Liverpool on the 27th of March 1919 on board the Shaw, Savill & Albion Line ship SS Kia Ora to New Zealand. On the left he managed to obtain the signatures of the Ships Officers on ANZAC Day, 25th of April 1919. On the Right is a superb pencil sketch of the boat done by a fellow passenger.
- Above: Gilt brass buttons to the British & Commonwealth Union Castle Line. Founded in 1900 with the merge of the Union Line and Castle Shipping Line. It wound up in 1990.
- Above Left: A 19mm, gilt brass fixed shank button to the Union Castle Line. Maker marked to back to "Kenning London". - Above Right: A 16mm, gilt brass fixed shank button to the Union Castle Line. Maker marked to back to "Kenning London". |
- Above: Gilt brass buttons to the British White Star Line. Founded in 1845, it was force merged by the British Government in 1934 to the Cunard Line.
- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 21mm button to the White Star Line. Maker marked to back to "Miller & Rayner & Haysom Ld". - Above Middle: A gilt brass, fixed shank 16mm button to the White Star Line. Note the larger star. Maker marked to "Peck's Liverpool". - Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 16mm button to the White Star Line. Maker marked to back to "Rayner & Sons, Liverpool". |
- Above: A silver bullion and coloured thread on a black material background peaked Cap badge to the British India Steam Navigation Company. No maker name to back.
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- Opposite & Above: items to the British India Steam Navigation Company. Founded in 1856, it merged with P & O in 1914, but continued to 1972 to have it own identity, when it then was completely taken over.
- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 25mm button to the British India Steam Navigation Company. Maker marked to back to "Firmin & Sons Ld London". - Above Right:A gilt brass, fixed shank 24mm button to the British India Steam Navigation Company. Maker marked to back to "S W Silver & Co. London". |
- Below: Buttons to the British Royal Mail Steam Packet Company. Formed in 1839, it went from a troubled start to being the largest Steam Ship line in the world in 1927. It was liquidated in 1932, due to scandal and miss-management, with it being reformed into the Royal Mail Lines.
- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 24mm button to the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company. Queen Victoria Crown, it has the maker mark of "Firmin & Sons 153 Strand & 13 Conduit St London".
- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 15mm button to the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company. Queen Victoria Crown, it has the maker mark of "Firmin London". - Above Right: A gilt brass, fixed shank 15mm button to the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company. Queen Victoria Crown, it has the maker mark of "C & J Weldon". |
- Above Left: A gilt brass, fixed shank 23mm button to the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company. Kings Crown, with George V cypher, it has the maker mark of "Miller Rayner & Haysom Ltd".
- Above Right: A white metal, fixed shank 21mm button to the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company. Kings Crown, with George V cypher, it has the maker mark of "Capital & Labour Stores Southampton". |
Above Left: A gilt brass 19mm, fixed shank button to the Orient Line. Maker marked to back to "Ed Stillwell & Son Ltd, London".
Above Right: A gilt brass 19mm, fixed shank button to the Orient Line. Maker marked to back to "Miller, Rayner & Haysom Ld". |
Above Left: A silvered 21mm, fixed shank button to the Orient Line. Maker marked to back to "Baker & Co Ltd, London".
Above Right: A silvered 16mm, fixed shank button to the Orient Line. Maker marked to back to "Baker & Co Ltd, London". |
The Orient Line was a British Shipping company founded in 1797. It primarily did the England to Australia run, and was eventually bought out by P & O in 1919. It continued to trade under the Orient Line brand until 1966.