New Zealand Corps 1
This section will cover the badges worn by the New Zealand Corps.
Many of them came into existence in 1911, with the formation of a permanent New Zealand Army, but a few had existed before, in smaller formations attached to Volunteer units throughout NZ.
The bulk of the units formed because of the First World War (NZ Army Ordnance Corps, NZ Provost Corps, NZ Machine Gun Corps to name a few), which enlarged the New Zealand Army ten-fold, and thus made a requirement for specialised units to support and manage the large amount of men and women in uniform.
1911 also saw the introduction of the Territorial Force, based on the UK system, and replacing the Volunteers before. They mainly wore the same badges of their permanent counter-parts, but there are some exceptions.
This section is under construction and will take a while to build up.
Many of them came into existence in 1911, with the formation of a permanent New Zealand Army, but a few had existed before, in smaller formations attached to Volunteer units throughout NZ.
The bulk of the units formed because of the First World War (NZ Army Ordnance Corps, NZ Provost Corps, NZ Machine Gun Corps to name a few), which enlarged the New Zealand Army ten-fold, and thus made a requirement for specialised units to support and manage the large amount of men and women in uniform.
1911 also saw the introduction of the Territorial Force, based on the UK system, and replacing the Volunteers before. They mainly wore the same badges of their permanent counter-parts, but there are some exceptions.
This section is under construction and will take a while to build up.
Royal New Zealand Artillery
With the formation of the permanent New Zealand Army in 1911 from the 1909 Defence Act, a Territorial Force also came into existence from the Regiment of New Zealand Field Artillery and the New Zealand Garrison Artillery Volunteers.
They became part of the New Zealand Artillery.
The Royal New Zealand Artillery was part of the permanent New Zealand Army, and maintained a instructional and cadre role.
They became part of the New Zealand Artillery.
The Royal New Zealand Artillery was part of the permanent New Zealand Army, and maintained a instructional and cadre role.
Opposite: Early 1911-1912 era badges to the New Zealand Field Artillery.
Top Row: A darkened brass other ranks Cap badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Thought to be manufactured by Stokes and Sons, Melbourne.
Middle Row: A pair of darkened bronze collar badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker marks to back.
Bottom Row: A well worn, bronze Cap badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Again, thought to be manufactured by Stokes and Sons, Melbourne.
Top Row: A darkened brass other ranks Cap badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Thought to be manufactured by Stokes and Sons, Melbourne.
Middle Row: A pair of darkened bronze collar badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker marks to back.
Bottom Row: A well worn, bronze Cap badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Again, thought to be manufactured by Stokes and Sons, Melbourne.
Opposite are shoulder titles to the New Zealand Field Artillery. These were worn widely during WW1 by the New Zealand Artillery in France, Belgium and the Middle East. Reinforcements to the New Zealand Artillery, trained in New Zealand as drafts to the New Zealand Field Artillery, but joined the New Zealand Artillery (N.Z.A) overseas.
Opposite Top: A curved, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London", and with two short hex type lugs to back.
Opposite Center: A curved, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Maker marked to "Stokes & Sons, Melb", and with two short hex type lugs to back. Note the stippling between the letters, which is a characteristic of this manufacturer.
Opposite Bottom: A curved, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Locally NZ made, and with two thin hex type lugs to back. No maker mark.
Opposite Top: A curved, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London", and with two short hex type lugs to back.
Opposite Center: A curved, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Maker marked to "Stokes & Sons, Melb", and with two short hex type lugs to back. Note the stippling between the letters, which is a characteristic of this manufacturer.
Opposite Bottom: A curved, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Locally NZ made, and with two thin hex type lugs to back. No maker mark.
Post 1911, I presume that the New Zealand Garrison Artillery continued to wear their previous Volunteer era badges up until WW1. I have found no distinction yet between the Permanent New Zealand Garrison Artillery and their Territorial counterparts.
Opposite Top: A non-matching pair of New Zealand Garrison Artillery Collar badges. The one to the Left is in brass with a marker plaque to "J R Gaunt, London" to back. The one on the Right is darkened brass, with much of its finish still remaining. It too is "J R Gaunt, London" plaqued to back.
Opposite Middle: A brass cap badge to No. 1 Company - (Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers) New Zealand Garrison Artillery.
Opposite Bottom: A pair of curved New Zealand Garrison Artillery (N.Z.G.A.) in brass. Both are maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London", one with a straight maker mark, and the other curved to back.
Opposite Top: A non-matching pair of New Zealand Garrison Artillery Collar badges. The one to the Left is in brass with a marker plaque to "J R Gaunt, London" to back. The one on the Right is darkened brass, with much of its finish still remaining. It too is "J R Gaunt, London" plaqued to back.
Opposite Middle: A brass cap badge to No. 1 Company - (Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers) New Zealand Garrison Artillery.
Opposite Bottom: A pair of curved New Zealand Garrison Artillery (N.Z.G.A.) in brass. Both are maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London", one with a straight maker mark, and the other curved to back.
The New Zealand Garrison Artillery, in conjunction with the Royal New Zealand Artillery mounted harbour examination batteries at all major New Zealand ports from the beginning of WW1. The examination batteries' task was to interrogate unidentified vessels entering New Zealand ports.
This was carried out around the clock from August 1914 to March 1915.
After this, both the guns and equipment were maintained in a state of "readiness", with battery personnel available at a few hours' notice.
This was carried out around the clock from August 1914 to March 1915.
After this, both the guns and equipment were maintained in a state of "readiness", with battery personnel available at a few hours' notice.
New Zealand Artillery
At the start of WW1, it was intended that one six-gun 18-pounder battery would form part of the initial contingent of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (N.Z.E.F). But following large numbers of volunteers for artillery, it was expanded to a brigade of three batteries, totaling twelve 18-pounders. This brigade left with the rest of the N.Z.E.F on the 16 October 1914.
As New Zealand increased its commitment to the Western Front and Middle East, this number would eventually swell to two New Zealand field artillery brigades (regiment-sized) serving with the New Zealand and Australian Divisions.
Opposite Top: A solid, bronze, Officers Cap badge with separate wheel to center to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London". It has two blades to back, at the base, behind the scroll.
Opposite Bottom: A die stamped, darkened brass, Officers Cap badge, with separate wheel to center. It has a maker plaque of "J R Gaunt. London" to back and 3 blades or tangs to back. Sadly the top blade has snapped off.
As New Zealand increased its commitment to the Western Front and Middle East, this number would eventually swell to two New Zealand field artillery brigades (regiment-sized) serving with the New Zealand and Australian Divisions.
Opposite Top: A solid, bronze, Officers Cap badge with separate wheel to center to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London". It has two blades to back, at the base, behind the scroll.
Opposite Bottom: A die stamped, darkened brass, Officers Cap badge, with separate wheel to center. It has a maker plaque of "J R Gaunt. London" to back and 3 blades or tangs to back. Sadly the top blade has snapped off.
Opposite Top: A die stamped, bronze (?) Officers Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Again, separate wheel to center, which does NOT spin, and three blades or tangs to back. No maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A die stamped, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Note in the top scroll, just a "N.Z". The three above have a extra dot/full stop after the "Z". The separate wheel to center is not movable. Three thin blades or tangs are present to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A die stamped, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Note in the top scroll, just a "N.Z". The three above have a extra dot/full stop after the "Z". The separate wheel to center is not movable. Three thin blades or tangs are present to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Top: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Three thick copper wire lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Left: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Right: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Note just one dot/full stop to center of "N.Z" on top scroll. Only two copper wire looped lugs to back, and no maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back, and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt, London".
Opposite Left: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Right: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Note just one dot/full stop to center of "N.Z" on top scroll. Only two copper wire looped lugs to back, and no maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back, and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt, London".
Opposite Top: A other ranks brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. This is what is termed a "locally made example" from sheet brass, with large flat slider to back. No maker mark.
Opposite Left: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Feels Gaunt made.
Opposite Right: A other ranks black painted brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Note just one dot/full stop to center of "N.Z" on top scroll. Three thick copper wire looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Slider to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Left: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Feels Gaunt made.
Opposite Right: A other ranks black painted brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Note just one dot/full stop to center of "N.Z" on top scroll. Three thick copper wire looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A other ranks gilt brass Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. Slider to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite: A copper other ranks Cap badge to the WW1 New Zealand Artillery. This badge has had a hard life as the top scroll and crown have parted at some stage from the base, so there is a large repair to back. Two copper looped lugs only to lower base. No maker marked, but similar to the New Zealand Field Artillery above, and probably Stokes and Sons of Melbourne.
Opposite Left: A single piece, 7 flame grenade Collar badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Made from darkened bronze, two loops to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Middle: A gilt brass, single piece, 7 flame grenade Collar badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Two loops to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Right: A darkened brass, 7 flame grenade Collar badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Maker plaqued to back to "J R Gaunt, London". Two copper looped lugs to back.
Opposite Middle: A gilt brass, single piece, 7 flame grenade Collar badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Two loops to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Right: A darkened brass, 7 flame grenade Collar badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Maker plaqued to back to "J R Gaunt, London". Two copper looped lugs to back.
Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to all branches of the New Zealand Artillery. Dark Blue/Scarlet/Dark Blue. There is a chance that this is a WW1 one, and did have a number of badges attached, which formed a "glory belt" of some Kiwi's service. Sadly it came to me with all badges removed. Not marked inside. There is a faint "392" which might be part of a service number.
Regiment of New Zealand Artillery
In 1921 the New Zealand Artillery (N.Z.A) was designated the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery. They wore a Cap badge with "NEW ZEALAND" to top scroll, and NEW ZEALAND to the base of their collars.
Opposite Top: A darkened bronze, die stamped Territorial Officers Cap badge to the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery. Separate wheel to center, and note the top scroll. This badge is actually 3 pieces, with separate top scroll and crown, from main body and wheel. Two blades or tangs to back, at base. No maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: Three collar badges to the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery. The two outer collars are die stamped, one piece, while the center collar is actually two piece, with separate bottom "NEW ZEALAND" scroll attached at two points. All are darkened bronze. No maker marks.
Opposite Top: A darkened bronze, die stamped Territorial Officers Cap badge to the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery. Separate wheel to center, and note the top scroll. This badge is actually 3 pieces, with separate top scroll and crown, from main body and wheel. Two blades or tangs to back, at base. No maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: Three collar badges to the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery. The two outer collars are die stamped, one piece, while the center collar is actually two piece, with separate bottom "NEW ZEALAND" scroll attached at two points. All are darkened bronze. No maker marks.
Royal New Zealand Artillery
The Royal New Zealand Artillery was established on the 15 October 1902. It was the permanent Artillery Force in the New Zealand Army. From its inception till 1947, it maintained a in instructional and cadre role to the New Zealand Garrison Artillery, New Zealand Field Artillery and after WW1, the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery.
In January 1947 the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery was amalgamated with the Royal New Zealand Artillery.
Opposite Top: A scarce gilt fire, solid Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Two long lugs to back, and a separate wheel to center. Maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
Opposite Left: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Slider to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Right: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Three looped lugs to back and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt, London".
Opposite Bottom: A Bronze, Officers Cap badge worn by Captain Henry Dale of the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Die stamped, with separate wheel to center. Three long tangs or blades to back and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt, London". His other items are below from WW2.
In January 1947 the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery was amalgamated with the Royal New Zealand Artillery.
Opposite Top: A scarce gilt fire, solid Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Two long lugs to back, and a separate wheel to center. Maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
Opposite Left: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Slider to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Right: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Three looped lugs to back and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt, London".
Opposite Bottom: A Bronze, Officers Cap badge worn by Captain Henry Dale of the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Die stamped, with separate wheel to center. Three long tangs or blades to back and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt, London". His other items are below from WW2.
Opposite Top Left: A gilt brass other ranks Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Probably late 1940's due to the pressed type lugs to back. No maker mark.
Center: A other ranks Royal New Zealand Artillery Cap Badge in gilt brass (now dull and polished). Long slider to back, which is maker stamped to "J. W. Tiptaft & Sons Ltd, Birmingham".
Opposite Top Right: A rare gilt fired brass, solid Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Separate wheel to center, with two long lugs to back. No maker mark.
Above Bottom Left: A other ranks Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Slider to back, but no maker mark.
Above Bottom Right: Again, a gilt brass other ranks Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Slider to back, but no maker mark. Slight difference in crown to the other.
Center: A other ranks Royal New Zealand Artillery Cap Badge in gilt brass (now dull and polished). Long slider to back, which is maker stamped to "J. W. Tiptaft & Sons Ltd, Birmingham".
Opposite Top Right: A rare gilt fired brass, solid Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Separate wheel to center, with two long lugs to back. No maker mark.
Above Bottom Left: A other ranks Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Slider to back, but no maker mark.
Above Bottom Right: Again, a gilt brass other ranks Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Slider to back, but no maker mark. Slight difference in crown to the other.
Above: Items collected during his service in WW2 by Captain Henry Dale, Royal New Zealand Artillery. His wife was a family friend, and gave these items in 2002.
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Above Top: A brass shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Above Center: A brass shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Brass hex lugs to back, and made by "J R Gaunt, London". Above Bottom: A brass shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Different to top title due to spacing between the letters. |
Opposite are some unit patches to the Royal New Zealand Artillery worn during WW2. Formation patches to the 2NZEF are complex, and during WW2, New Zealand looks to have changed its patch system three times. Opposite are a few from the 2nd and 3rd iterations, worn on the upper sleeve of their battledress with the New Zealand title above:
1. NZ H.Q Divisional Artillery - Circular unit patch, red over blue on a khaki backing. Above a sun-bleached embroidered New Zealand title of white on black background, attached to a khaki wool loop.
2. NZ 4th Field Artillery Regiment - Square unit patch, red over blue. Above is a white embroidered thread New Zealand title on black, with a black backing cloth. The black die looks to have run into the white after a wash/getting wet. Sew on type.
3. NZ 6th Field Artillery Regiment - Triangular unit patch, red over blue.
Above is a white embroidered thread New Zealand title on black, with a black backing cloth. Again the sew on type, which was attached just below the shoulder strap on the battledress.
4. NZ 14th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment - Shield shape unit patch of red over blue. Above is a white paint/printed New Zealand title on black material which has been then sewn onto a dark khaki ribbon material which is in a loop. This would slip onto the shoulder strap of the battle dress.
5. NZ 36th Survey Company N.Z.A - Square unit patch, with red over blue at a angle. Above is a white paint/printed New Zealand title on black material which has been then sewn onto a dark khaki ribbon material. This has been trimmed and used as a sew on type.
6. NZ 7th Anti-Tank Regiment - A possible unit patch. The colours are quiet dark, a diamond of red over blue. Above is a white embroidered thread New Zealand title on black, with a black backing paper.
7. A silver bullion embroidered New Zealand title on black material, which has then been attached to a black ribbon loop. These were a unofficial title, worn on walkout dress while troops were stationed overseas in places like Italy during WW2 and after.
1. NZ H.Q Divisional Artillery - Circular unit patch, red over blue on a khaki backing. Above a sun-bleached embroidered New Zealand title of white on black background, attached to a khaki wool loop.
2. NZ 4th Field Artillery Regiment - Square unit patch, red over blue. Above is a white embroidered thread New Zealand title on black, with a black backing cloth. The black die looks to have run into the white after a wash/getting wet. Sew on type.
3. NZ 6th Field Artillery Regiment - Triangular unit patch, red over blue.
Above is a white embroidered thread New Zealand title on black, with a black backing cloth. Again the sew on type, which was attached just below the shoulder strap on the battledress.
4. NZ 14th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment - Shield shape unit patch of red over blue. Above is a white paint/printed New Zealand title on black material which has been then sewn onto a dark khaki ribbon material which is in a loop. This would slip onto the shoulder strap of the battle dress.
5. NZ 36th Survey Company N.Z.A - Square unit patch, with red over blue at a angle. Above is a white paint/printed New Zealand title on black material which has been then sewn onto a dark khaki ribbon material. This has been trimmed and used as a sew on type.
6. NZ 7th Anti-Tank Regiment - A possible unit patch. The colours are quiet dark, a diamond of red over blue. Above is a white embroidered thread New Zealand title on black, with a black backing paper.
7. A silver bullion embroidered New Zealand title on black material, which has then been attached to a black ribbon loop. These were a unofficial title, worn on walkout dress while troops were stationed overseas in places like Italy during WW2 and after.
With change of monarch in 1952, the Royal New Zealand Artillery Cap badge was also updated with the new crown.
Opposite Top: A heavy, die stamped gilt brass Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Queens crown, with three thread posts to back, and nuts. No maker mark.
Opposite Left: A gilt brass other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
Opposite Right: A darkened bronze, Officers version of the Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Separate wheel to center, semi-solid to back, and three long copper looped lugs. No maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A gilt fired brass Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Separate wheel to center, semi-solid to back, and three long copper looped lugs. No maker mark.
Opposite Top: A heavy, die stamped gilt brass Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Queens crown, with three thread posts to back, and nuts. No maker mark.
Opposite Left: A gilt brass other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
Opposite Right: A darkened bronze, Officers version of the Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Separate wheel to center, semi-solid to back, and three long copper looped lugs. No maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A gilt fired brass Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Separate wheel to center, semi-solid to back, and three long copper looped lugs. No maker mark.
Opposite Top: A Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Gilt brass, and probably 1950's in manufacture, with pressed type looped lugs to back in a North/South config. No maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A heavy, die stamped, gilt brass beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. |
Above Left: A bronze collar badge, to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Single piece, with two long copper looped lugs to back.
No maker mark. Above Center: A two piece, gilt brass collar badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Separate bottom scroll attached to the 7 flame grenade. Two long looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Above Right: A two piece, darkened bronze collar badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Separate bottom scroll attached to the 7 flame grenade. Two long looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. |
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Opposite: A Korean War era Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Multi piece, with Bullion threaded badge to center.
Above: A shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Red embroidered letters on a dark blue background. |
The following buttons were worn by all formations of the New Zealand Artillery.
Left: 1911 Patt 25mm NZ Artillery Button by J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London, Engld.
Middle: 1911 Patt 25mm NZ Artillery Button by Firmin, London.
Right: 1911 Patt 25mm NZ Artillery Button by W. Dowler & Sons Ltd, Bhm.
Left: 1911 Patt 25mm NZ Artillery Button by J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London, Engld.
Middle: 1911 Patt 25mm NZ Artillery Button by Firmin, London.
Right: 1911 Patt 25mm NZ Artillery Button by W. Dowler & Sons Ltd, Bhm.
Left: 1911 Patt 25mm NZ Artillery Button by Stokes & Sons, Melbourne.
Middle: 1911 Patt 23mm NZ Artillery Button by Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham.
Right: 1911 Patt 25mm NZ Artillery Button by Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham.
Middle: 1911 Patt 23mm NZ Artillery Button by Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham.
Right: 1911 Patt 25mm NZ Artillery Button by Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham.
Opposite: A rather rare 1911 pattern New Zealand Territorial Artillery. Possibly produced in 1911 for the establishment of the Territorial Corps, but then not worn, but rather the above buttons were by all Permanent and Territorial units.
25mm and maker marked to The New Zealand Clothing Factory.
25mm and maker marked to The New Zealand Clothing Factory.
A study in sizes:
- Right: A 25mm 1911 Patt gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery.
- Right Middle: A 21mm 1911 Patt gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery.
- Left Middle: A 17mm 1911 Patt gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery.
- Left: A pair of 12mm Officers peaked cap side buttons (for the chin-strap) to the NZ Artillery.
- Right: A 25mm 1911 Patt gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery.
- Right Middle: A 21mm 1911 Patt gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery.
- Left Middle: A 17mm 1911 Patt gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery.
- Left: A pair of 12mm Officers peaked cap side buttons (for the chin-strap) to the NZ Artillery.
At some stage in the 1930's or 40's, the pattern of Artillery button was changed to the opposite versions.
- Left Top: 26mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J. R. Gaunt & Son, London"
- Middle Top: 23mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J. R. Gaunt & Son, London"
- Right Top: 23mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "Buttons Limited, Birmingham"
- Left Bottom: 17mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "Firmin, London"
- Middle Bottom: 17mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London Engd"
- Middle Bottom: 16mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "B & P Ltd, B'ham"
- Left Top: 26mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J. R. Gaunt & Son, London"
- Middle Top: 23mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J. R. Gaunt & Son, London"
- Right Top: 23mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "Buttons Limited, Birmingham"
- Left Bottom: 17mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "Firmin, London"
- Middle Bottom: 17mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London Engd"
- Middle Bottom: 16mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "B & P Ltd, B'ham"
- Opposite Left: A 19mm Kings crown NZ Artillery Button with maker mark to "Gaunt, London". Post 1947.
- Opposite Right A 19mm Queens crown NZ Artillery Button with maker mark to "Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Right A 19mm Queens crown NZ Artillery Button with maker mark to "Gaunt, London".
- Above: Gunner qualification badges, worn on the sleeve by the New Zealand Artillerymen. They are the same as the British worn badges, with the above opposing pairs just showing the slight differences in patterns (cannon, spokes etc) and the top pair have their metal backing plates.
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- Above: Variation again in Gunner qualification badges. These are in gilt brass. Below is a Cap badge, with crown removed. I am told that the RNZA wear these in place now-a-days on their sleeves.
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Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps
The New Zealand Army Service Corps formed on the 1st March 1913.
Opposite Left: A solid backed, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Maker stamped behind the crown to "J R Gaunt, London". This badge is lugged.
Opposite Right: A darkened brass version of the Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. This badge has 2 tangs or blades to back (one sadly broken) and is stamped "J R Gaunt London"
Opposite Left: A solid backed, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Maker stamped behind the crown to "J R Gaunt, London". This badge is lugged.
Opposite Right: A darkened brass version of the Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. This badge has 2 tangs or blades to back (one sadly broken) and is stamped "J R Gaunt London"
Above Top Left: A variation of a other ranks Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps in darkened copper. No maker mark, but probably "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne", due to the short rounded lugs and that this supplier often make copper badges.
Above Top Right: A variation of a other ranks Cap Badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps in what appears to be silvered brass. No maker mark, but probably "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne" again. Army regulations doesn't state a need for a Silvered badge, so possibly just done by a soldier to make the badge stand out or to be given as a sweethearts badge. The badge is lugged. Above Bottom Left: A other ranks Cap badge in gilt brass, with 2 D shaped copper lugs to back and the maker plaque to back of crown of "J R Gaunt, London" Above Bottom Right: A other ranks Cap badge in gilt brass. Thick wire copper loops to back, and characteristic of WW2 era manufacture. No maker mark I can see, but probably NZ made. |
Above is a selection of collars to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. They are actually quiet hard to get and not often seen as compared to the Cap badge.
Above Top Left Pair: A gilt brass collar pair with high raised crown to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. D shaped copper loops to back and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt" to back of crown. These have voided crown, but you also get a non-voided type by Gaunt. Above Top Right Pair: A not quite matching pair (slight differences in crown) of Collar badge. Note the crown is lower on the body of the badge, and that the rays of the star are in points. Short rounded copper lugs to back, which are characteristic of "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne". Badges are not marked. Above Bottom Pair: A matching pair of probably New Zealand made Collar badges to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Crown is situated lower on body of the badge, and matches the Cap badge more. Thick copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark. More WW2 era. |
Opposite: A selection of New Zealand Army Service Corps shoulder titles.
Top Left: A 2 piece shoulder title to the Motor Transport Company of the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Separate "MT" soldered onto a N.Z.A.S.C title. 4 lugs to back (2 D shaped to the MT title, 2 hex type to the NZASC title). No maker mark and missing one hex lug to back.
Top Right: A single piece shoulder title to the Motor Transport Company of the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Two copper wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
Center: A 2 piece shoulder title to the Motor Transport Company of the New Zealand Army Service Corps. 2 hex lugs to back, along with the maker details of "J R Gaunt London". Brazed rather than soldered together. Missing the foot of the "C".
Bottom Left: A curved gilt brass title to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Hex lugs to back and the maker mark impressed to "J R Gaunt, London".
Bottom Right: A curved gilt brass title to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Thick copper looped lugs to back and the maker mark impressed to "Stokes" for Stokes & Sons of Melbourne.
Top Left: A 2 piece shoulder title to the Motor Transport Company of the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Separate "MT" soldered onto a N.Z.A.S.C title. 4 lugs to back (2 D shaped to the MT title, 2 hex type to the NZASC title). No maker mark and missing one hex lug to back.
Top Right: A single piece shoulder title to the Motor Transport Company of the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Two copper wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
Center: A 2 piece shoulder title to the Motor Transport Company of the New Zealand Army Service Corps. 2 hex lugs to back, along with the maker details of "J R Gaunt London". Brazed rather than soldered together. Missing the foot of the "C".
Bottom Left: A curved gilt brass title to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Hex lugs to back and the maker mark impressed to "J R Gaunt, London".
Bottom Right: A curved gilt brass title to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Thick copper looped lugs to back and the maker mark impressed to "Stokes" for Stokes & Sons of Melbourne.
- Above: Separate "MT" or Motor Transport titles, worn above NZASC titles on some shoulder straps (I have seen a Officers with two separate titles. Two loops to back to each, no maker mark.
- Opposite: Formed during WW2 in 1941, the New Zealand Women's National Service Corps was set up to assist and provide recruitment to the New Zealand Army of typists, drivers and cooks. It became part of the New Zealand Army Service corps in 1942. Here is a scarce gilt brass cap badge to the New Zealand Women's National Service Corps (W.N.S.C). |
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In 1947 the N.Z.A.S.C was awarded the prefix "Royal" and thus became the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. This meant a change to their Corps badge.
Above Top: A Officers Silver (marked S to back), gilt brass and enamel multi piece Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. Much of the frosting has worn off on the silver, which is now a dark tone. All three have the letter "S" marked to back (for Silver) and the maker mark of "J R Gaunt, London". Above Bottom: A gilt brass and white metal Cap and Collar set for a other ranks to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. No maker mark, with two copper looped lugs brazed to back. |
With the passing of George VI in 1952, the badge changed again to accommodate the new monarch and cypher.
Above Top: A Officers Silver (? - not marked), gilt brass and enamel multi piece Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. Queens crown, with ERII cypher. All three are maker mark to "J R Gaunt, London" to back. Above Bottom: A gilt brass and white metal Queens crown Cap badge for a other ranks to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. No maker mark, with two copper looped lugs brazed to back. I have not yet seen matching collars for this badge. |
Above: A Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps Cap and Collar pairs in anodised Aluminium. The Cap is 2 piece, with a brass and enamel backing plate to center, stamped "T". It has pin's for lugs. Tow of the collars have pins for lugs, while another two have loops. They are single piece, two tone Aluminium. Note the colour does fade with time and exposure to air/humidity.
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Above: A gilt brass, enamel and chromed version of the Cap badge. This has had its lugs removed and 2 long pins affixed to back to be worn as a broach?
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Opposite Top: A older style cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. Note gold embroidered letters on a black background.
Opposite Bottom: A cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. Note gold embroidered letters on a dark blue background.
On May the 12th 1979, the Corps was disbanded and became the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport.
Opposite Bottom: A cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. Note gold embroidered letters on a dark blue background.
On May the 12th 1979, the Corps was disbanded and became the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport.
Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. Khaki/White/Khaki. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "6 7/8". Note this is a much finer material puggaree.
Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport
The Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport formed on the 12th of May 1979.
- Above: A chromed and gilt metal, with resin center Cap and Collar set to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A 26mm, anodised aluminium and brass button to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport. Maker marked to "Buttons Limited, Birmingham".
- Above Left: A 17mm, anodised aluminium and brass button to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport. Maker marked to "Badge & Button, London". |
Opposite: Two different coloured titles to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport. Top is gold letters on a black background. Bottom is gold letters on a dark blue background.
The Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport was disbanded on the 9th of Dec 1996, and its personnel and function absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment.
The Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport was disbanded on the 9th of Dec 1996, and its personnel and function absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment.
Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment
The Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment formed on the 9th Dec 1996. It amalgamated 3 Corps
- Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (R.N.Z.E.M.C)
- Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (R.N.Z.A.O.C)
- Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps (R.N.Z.A.S.C)
Opposite Top: A two piece Cap and Collar set with "large stars" to center in gilt metal and resin to the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment. Both Cap and Collar have a separate central oval with swords, which is attached to the Gilt metal backing plate. The Cap badge has screw posts to back, while the Collar has pins. No maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A single piece Cap and Collar set in gilt metal and resin to the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment. Note the smaller stars to center, the Cap badge has screw posts to back, while the 2 Collars have pins. No maker marks.
- Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (R.N.Z.E.M.C)
- Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (R.N.Z.A.O.C)
- Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps (R.N.Z.A.S.C)
Opposite Top: A two piece Cap and Collar set with "large stars" to center in gilt metal and resin to the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment. Both Cap and Collar have a separate central oval with swords, which is attached to the Gilt metal backing plate. The Cap badge has screw posts to back, while the Collar has pins. No maker mark.
Opposite Bottom: A single piece Cap and Collar set in gilt metal and resin to the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment. Note the smaller stars to center, the Cap badge has screw posts to back, while the 2 Collars have pins. No maker marks.
New Zealand Cadets
The system of "Cadets" has been around in New Zealand since Volunteer times (pre-1911) and promoted through the School Educational system. In 1902 the Education Department took control of the Public School Cadets.
It was divided into two levels
- Junior School Cadets - Boys from 12 to 14 years old
- Senior School Cadets - Boys 14 years and older.
Many of these individual units had their own school or unit badge.
Opposite: A Edward VII Cyphered gilt brass 19mm button to the New Zealand Public School Cadets.
It was divided into two levels
- Junior School Cadets - Boys from 12 to 14 years old
- Senior School Cadets - Boys 14 years and older.
Many of these individual units had their own school or unit badge.
Opposite: A Edward VII Cyphered gilt brass 19mm button to the New Zealand Public School Cadets.
Above, Top Left: A gilt brass Edward VII Cap badge to the New Zealand Public School Cadets.
Above Top Right: A gilt brass George V Cap badge to the New Zealand Junior Cadets. Above Bottom Left: A generic patterned frame Cap badge to the 6th & 7th Senior Cadets. Above Bottom Right: A WW1 reinforcements Cap badge frame used by the 105th Senior Cadets. |
Above, Top Left: Some of the larger high schools in New Zealand maintained their own Army Cadet units. This is a Cap Badge to Wellington Collage Cadets.
Above, Top Right: A generic, kings crown Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Cadet Corps. Above, Bottom: A generic, Queens crown Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Cadet Corps. |
Above: Cap badge to the 4th (Cadet Battalion) of the 1st (Canterbury) Infantry Regiment. Very similar design to its Regular Army counter-part, but has a void area around the Heron to center and different wording to oval banner. Gilt brass badge with slider to back. No maker mark.
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Above are shoulder titles to the New Zealand Regular Force Army Cadets.
Top: A cloth ribbon type shoulder title to the Regular Force Cadets. Center: A abbreviated embroidered letter title. Bottom: A standard sized shoulder title to the Regular Force Cadets. |
Above: A complicated badge in gilt fired brass. All have maker details for "J R Gaunt, London" impressed to back.
Used by: - NZ Senior Cadet Officers - 1911 to 1921 - Training Cadets at Threntham Camp from 1927 - Unposted Regular Service Recruits from 1932 until 1950 - Troops stationed on Fanning Island during WW2. |
Above Left: A darkened bronze version of the badge, again impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London".
Above Right: A chromed plated Cap or collar badge. The badge was adopted by the Regular Force Cadets in 1950 and was either plated or in chrome from 1952. |
Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the New Zealand Regular Force Cadets from 1952. Red/Khaki/Red. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7 5/8".
Note this puggaree colour combination has also be used by:
- Fanning Island Infantry.
Note this puggaree colour combination has also be used by:
- Fanning Island Infantry.
Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to unposted New Zealand Regular Force recruits Black/Black/Black. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7 ".
Royal New Zealand Engineers
The New Zealand Engineer have a long history prior to 1911 as part of NZ Volunteer System. It was established on the 15th of October 1902, but officially the word "Corps" was not in their title until the 1st of June 1923 when the became the Corps of New Zealand Engineers. On the 12th of June 1947, the corps were awarded the prefix "Royal", and became the Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineer.
Opposite: A rare gilt brass cap badge with George V Cypher (reigned 1910 to 1936) to the New Zealand Engineer Volunteers.
Opposite: A rare gilt brass cap badge with George V Cypher (reigned 1910 to 1936) to the New Zealand Engineer Volunteers.
Above Left: A darkened Officers cap badge with tang fixings to back to the New Zealand Engineers. This pattern of badge was worn from 1912 to 1952.
Above Right: A gilt brass other ranks cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. This has the "J R Gaunt London" plaque to back. |
Above Top Center: The same gilt brass other ranks cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers, used here for comparison with three New Zealand Tunnelers Cap Badges. The Tunnelers formed during WW1 on the Western Front, and disbanded as a unit in 1919. These are a rare badge. Note the slight difference in size between the top center badge and the three. The Tunnelers is just ever so larger. Clockwise Right: A Gilt brass, Gaunt plaqued NZE Tunnelers. Bottom Center: A "Tiptaft, Bham" marked Cap badge, with slider to the NZE Tunnelers. Left Center: A unmarked, gilt brass example which has had a lacquer applied over the top.
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Opposite: A selection of NZE other ranks Cap badge as follows:
Top Left: A semi-solid backed, darkened copper Cap badge to the NZE by "Stokes and Sons, Melbourne".
Top 2nd from the Left: A semi-solid backed, gilt brass Cap badge to the NZE by "Stokes and Sons, Melbourne".
Top 2nd from the Right: A Gilt brass Cap badge to the NZE. No markings to back, but pressed type brass lugs.
Top Right: A variation on the NZE Cap badge in gilt brass, but with much smaller "NZE" to center and large + to lower banner.
Bottom Left: A Gilt Brass, semi-solid Cap badge, marked "Stokes & Sons, Melb" in a straight line to back. Issued and worn by 557050 Sapper Ewen Charles William Mills in WW2. Ewan was a neighbour and family friend. He added the "spike" after the lugs broke off his badge.
Bottom Right: A darkened brass cap badge to the NZE with a maker mark of "M & K, W" to upper center back, for Mayer and Keane of Wellington.
Top Left: A semi-solid backed, darkened copper Cap badge to the NZE by "Stokes and Sons, Melbourne".
Top 2nd from the Left: A semi-solid backed, gilt brass Cap badge to the NZE by "Stokes and Sons, Melbourne".
Top 2nd from the Right: A Gilt brass Cap badge to the NZE. No markings to back, but pressed type brass lugs.
Top Right: A variation on the NZE Cap badge in gilt brass, but with much smaller "NZE" to center and large + to lower banner.
Bottom Left: A Gilt Brass, semi-solid Cap badge, marked "Stokes & Sons, Melb" in a straight line to back. Issued and worn by 557050 Sapper Ewen Charles William Mills in WW2. Ewan was a neighbour and family friend. He added the "spike" after the lugs broke off his badge.
Bottom Right: A darkened brass cap badge to the NZE with a maker mark of "M & K, W" to upper center back, for Mayer and Keane of Wellington.
Above: A selection of Collars worn by the NZE, 4 or which show the 10 flame Grenade, characteristic of the Engineers.
Top Left: A Gilt fired brass collar badge to the NZE, with 10 flaming Grenade. The bottom banner is solid backed and there is no maker mark. Top Middle: A similar Collar, but in a dull brass finish to the NZE Top Right: A darkened copper example of the NZE Collar. Bottom Left and Right: A widely worn flaming Grenade collar by the NZE during WW1 and by other NZ Corps. Both are gilt brass. Bottom Center: A darkened brass collar badge to the NZE. No maker mark to back. |
Above: The New Zealand Railway Battalions formed in Oct 1911, and were part of the NZE. The would deploy with the Samoa Advance Force in 1914 and then go on to France and the Western Front. The unit was disbanded in 1921.
Above Left: A darkened brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Railway Battalion. Impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London" Above Center: A cast brass NZE other ranks Cap badge. Often these were produced in the middle East. Slightly smaller than a standard Badge, and with what appears to be the shape of a Gaunt plaque cast in to back. Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Railway Battalion. Plaque to back to "J R Gaunt, London" |
Opposite: A selection of New Zealand Engineer Tunnelers shoulder titles. The top two brass have a "E" brazed to the top of a standard "New Zealand" title.
The below two are in darkened brass, and come with a separate "E".
The below two are in darkened brass, and come with a separate "E".
More Variations on the NZE title.
Above Top: A NZE title constructed much in the style found with NZ Boer War titles. Above 2nd Row: A pair of fine bronze Officers shoulder titles to the NZE Above 3rd Row: Standard WW1, J R Gaunt stamped shoulder titles to the NZE. Bottom Row: A Australian made, "Stokes & Sons" marked shoulder title to the NZE. Again, around WW1. |
Above: When supplies were short, you had to make do with what you could lay your hands on. The above three titles are actually, New Zealand Rifle or "N.Z.R" titles, which have had the "R" modified at the end to create a "E".
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With the change in title in 1947 with the prefix "Royal", the Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineers did not change their badge, but continued to wear their NZE king crown badges. It was only after the death of George VI in 1952, that they finally changed their badge.
Opposite: A selection of modern day Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineers Cap Badges and Collars:
Top Left: A solid, gilt fired brass, silver (? not marked) and enamel Cap badge in 2 pieces. Not maker marked.
Top Right: A white metal, brass and enamel Cap badge. 2 piece and die stamped. Again, not marked.
Bottom Left: A pair of gilt fired brass and Silver or Silver plate collar badges.
Bottom Center: A 2 piece, anodised aluminium and paint Cap badge. Long looped lugs to back, but no maker.
Bottom Right: A single anodised aluminium Collar to the RNZE. Pins to back.
Opposite: A selection of modern day Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineers Cap Badges and Collars:
Top Left: A solid, gilt fired brass, silver (? not marked) and enamel Cap badge in 2 pieces. Not maker marked.
Top Right: A white metal, brass and enamel Cap badge. 2 piece and die stamped. Again, not marked.
Bottom Left: A pair of gilt fired brass and Silver or Silver plate collar badges.
Bottom Center: A 2 piece, anodised aluminium and paint Cap badge. Long looped lugs to back, but no maker.
Bottom Right: A single anodised aluminium Collar to the RNZE. Pins to back.
Above: A older style dark blue letters on a red felt background.
Opposite: A car or truck badge to the Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineers. The Gaunt plaqued cap badge is for scale. This huge aluminium badge would be mounted via the bolt at the base through the bumper of the car/truck. No maker mark to back. |
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- Opposite Left: A anodised aluminium, gold toned 19mm button to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Queens Crown, so post 1952, it has the maker details for "Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Middle: A anodised aluminium, silver toned 19mm button to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Queens Crown, it has the maker details for "Badge & Button, London".
- Opposite Right: A anodised aluminium, silver toned 16mm button to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Queens Crown, it has the maker details for "Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Middle: A anodised aluminium, silver toned 19mm button to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Queens Crown, it has the maker details for "Badge & Button, London".
- Opposite Right: A anodised aluminium, silver toned 16mm button to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Queens Crown, it has the maker details for "Gaunt, London".
Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Khaki/Dark Blue/Khaki. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7". Note the puggaree has been folded side-on.
New Zealand Machine Gun Corps
The New Zealand Machine Gun Corps was forming January 1916 in Egypt. Prior to this, each regiment had their own Machine Gun Section.
There were 2 New Zealand formations, deployed to France, and to Palestine and the Middle East during WW1.
The NZMGC in France went with the newly formed New Zealand and ANZAC Divisions in April 1916. They were disbanded at the end of the war in 1918.
The NZMGC in the Middle East would form a Mounted Squadron and ride with the NZ Mounted Rifles and NZ Camel Corps. They disbanded in 1919.
During WW2, the NZMGC formed again as the 27th (Machine Gun) Battalion of the 2NZEF in 1940 and would go on to fight in Greece, Crete, North Africa and Italy. They disbanded in 1945, and as a overseas serving unit in the 2NZEF, would have worn the NZ "Onwards" Badge.
There were 2 New Zealand formations, deployed to France, and to Palestine and the Middle East during WW1.
The NZMGC in France went with the newly formed New Zealand and ANZAC Divisions in April 1916. They were disbanded at the end of the war in 1918.
The NZMGC in the Middle East would form a Mounted Squadron and ride with the NZ Mounted Rifles and NZ Camel Corps. They disbanded in 1919.
During WW2, the NZMGC formed again as the 27th (Machine Gun) Battalion of the 2NZEF in 1940 and would go on to fight in Greece, Crete, North Africa and Italy. They disbanded in 1945, and as a overseas serving unit in the 2NZEF, would have worn the NZ "Onwards" Badge.
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Below: Initially, when the NZMGC arrived in France in April 1916, they wore the British MGC badge.
Below Top: A Bronze Officers Cap badge, with three bladed tangs and maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt, London" to back. Bellow Bottom: A Other ranks MGC Cap Badge in gilt brass. Three copper looped lugs to back. 
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Above Top: A gilt brass Cap and Collar set to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. All three have a separate "NZ" brazed to base. Sometimes not that straightly done. All have three D shaped copper looped lugs attached and are maker plaqued to "J R Gaunt London"
Above Lower Center: A variation on the Other Ranks NZMGC Cap Badge, with non-voided center under crown. It has thick copper lugs which could indicate a "Stokes & Sons of Melbourne" maker, but it is not marked. It too, has a separate "NZ" brazed to base. |
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Below: A selection of three Officers Bronze Collars. The top, center one is made by "Firmin, London". It has 4 looped lugs to back, on the ends/tips of each machine gun. The bottom 2 collars are both solid backed bronze made by "J R Gaunt London" and have 3 lugs to back.
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Above: A Cap and Collar set made in New Zealand. Referred to as the "Stubby Barrel" version just because the barrels on the guns are thicker and shorter than their European made counterparts.. These were most likely worn by Reinforcements while training in New Zealand prior to service overseas during WW1.
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Above Top: A pair of WW1 shoulder titles to the New Zealand Machine Gun (N.Z.M.G). Maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back.
Above Middle: A pair of WW1 shoulder titles to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps (N.Z.M.G.C). Again maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back. Above Bottom: A pair of WW1 shoulder titles to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps Specialists (N.Z.M.G.S). Probably worn by Reinforcements in New Zealand. The one on the left is marked "Stokes & Sons", while the one on the right is marked "Bock Wellington" to back. |
A cast brass sleeve qualification badge for a New Zealand Machine Gunner (M.G.). The New Zealand Army adopted many of the British sleeve qualification badges throughout its history, but also sometimes personalised its own awards. Possible a private purchase item sold to the troops station in the middle East. It has two copper loops to back, which have been cast into the badge.
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New Zealand Cycle Corps
The New Zealand Cyclist Corps was formed in April 1915, though units of cyclist had existed prior to 1911 as part of the Volunteer Militia throughout New Zealand.
During WW1 the Kiwi's combined with the 2nd Australian Divisional Cyclist Company to form the 2nd ANZAC Cyclist Battalion.
The New Zealand Cyclist Corps was disbanded in England in May 1919.
Below Top Row: A bronze Officers Cap Badge to the New Zealand Cyclist Corps. It has three tangs or blades to back and a maker plaque for "J R Gaunt London".
Below Bottom Row: A Cap and Collar set in gilt brass to the New Zealand Cyclist Corps. Both Collar badges are marked "J R Gaunt, London" with a small plaque to the back of the crown. The collar on the left, has the word "ARMY" faintly under the "NZ" on the lower banner, where Gaunt modified the British dies to strike the New Zealand badge.
During WW1 the Kiwi's combined with the 2nd Australian Divisional Cyclist Company to form the 2nd ANZAC Cyclist Battalion.
The New Zealand Cyclist Corps was disbanded in England in May 1919.
Below Top Row: A bronze Officers Cap Badge to the New Zealand Cyclist Corps. It has three tangs or blades to back and a maker plaque for "J R Gaunt London".
Below Bottom Row: A Cap and Collar set in gilt brass to the New Zealand Cyclist Corps. Both Collar badges are marked "J R Gaunt, London" with a small plaque to the back of the crown. The collar on the left, has the word "ARMY" faintly under the "NZ" on the lower banner, where Gaunt modified the British dies to strike the New Zealand badge.
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Above Top: Two Gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Cycle Corps. Both are marked "J R Gaunt, London" to back.
Above Bottom: A selection of collars, just showing the variation in crown and spoke center. None are maker marked. |
Long Range Desert Group
The Long Range Desert Group formed in June 1940 in Egypt with the goal of carry out deep penetration, covert reconnaissance patrols and intelligence missions from behind Italian lines, although sometimes they also engaged in combat operations.
Initially the unit was made up of mainly New Zealanders, and called the Long Range Patrol (LRP). This changed as numbers were also augmented with Southern Rhodesian and British volunteers.
They were highly successful, and the unit became legendary.
The kiwi's were to remain with the unit until just after May 1943, when they were withdrawn back to their original units.
Opposite Left: A small Silver unit lapel badge to the Long Range Desert Group. Marked "Stg Sil" and "THJ". It was made in New Zealand.
Opposite Right: A cast brass cap badge to the Long Range Desert Group. Worn to detail to front, but correctly fretted between the letters, with the legs of the Scorpion in the correct places. This badge is widely faked, with originals now nearly out of reach of the average collector.
In Feb 2019 a New Zealand Long Range Desert Group association pin (its estimated that some 70 odd Stirling Silver badges were made in Egypt during the war, and presented to surviving members to wear at the time) sold on a auction website for $17, 180 NZD or just under 10,000 euros. An amazing sum for a piece of Silver no larger than 35mm in height. I sadly do not have one to show.
Initially the unit was made up of mainly New Zealanders, and called the Long Range Patrol (LRP). This changed as numbers were also augmented with Southern Rhodesian and British volunteers.
They were highly successful, and the unit became legendary.
The kiwi's were to remain with the unit until just after May 1943, when they were withdrawn back to their original units.
Opposite Left: A small Silver unit lapel badge to the Long Range Desert Group. Marked "Stg Sil" and "THJ". It was made in New Zealand.
Opposite Right: A cast brass cap badge to the Long Range Desert Group. Worn to detail to front, but correctly fretted between the letters, with the legs of the Scorpion in the correct places. This badge is widely faked, with originals now nearly out of reach of the average collector.
In Feb 2019 a New Zealand Long Range Desert Group association pin (its estimated that some 70 odd Stirling Silver badges were made in Egypt during the war, and presented to surviving members to wear at the time) sold on a auction website for $17, 180 NZD or just under 10,000 euros. An amazing sum for a piece of Silver no larger than 35mm in height. I sadly do not have one to show.
Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps
The New Zealand Medical Corps has a long history, with volunteer units or companies forming in the early 1900's in the 5 Volunteer Military districts.
Its badges are numerous, with significant differences in the wording to lower banner. They fall into the following periods:
- From 1911 the Permanent Forces Medical Department was formed into the New Zealand Army Medical Corps (N.Z.A.M.C).
- From 1911 the Territorial Medical Force was formed into the New Zealand Medical Corps (N.Z.M.C).
- From about 1915 – 1923 a badge with the banner N.Z Medical Corps in the lower banner was worn.
- During WW1 - a badge with the banner New Zealand Medical Corps was worn.
- In 1947, the Territorial and Permanent Force Medical units combined to form the Royal New Zealand Medical Corps.
Opposite Top: A shoulder title to the New Zealand Amy Medical Department (N.Z.A.M.D). I presume this is to the Permanent Force of the New Zealand Army.
Above Center: A Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Medical Corps in gilt brass. Worn from 1911, by the Permanent Force. These are scarce , as the Corps must have been very small. Note the differences in title between the Cap and the Collar badges. The cap has the wording "N.Z. Army Medical Corps, while the Collars only have "N.Z.A.M.C".
Its badges are numerous, with significant differences in the wording to lower banner. They fall into the following periods:
- From 1911 the Permanent Forces Medical Department was formed into the New Zealand Army Medical Corps (N.Z.A.M.C).
- From 1911 the Territorial Medical Force was formed into the New Zealand Medical Corps (N.Z.M.C).
- From about 1915 – 1923 a badge with the banner N.Z Medical Corps in the lower banner was worn.
- During WW1 - a badge with the banner New Zealand Medical Corps was worn.
- In 1947, the Territorial and Permanent Force Medical units combined to form the Royal New Zealand Medical Corps.
Opposite Top: A shoulder title to the New Zealand Amy Medical Department (N.Z.A.M.D). I presume this is to the Permanent Force of the New Zealand Army.
Above Center: A Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Medical Corps in gilt brass. Worn from 1911, by the Permanent Force. These are scarce , as the Corps must have been very small. Note the differences in title between the Cap and the Collar badges. The cap has the wording "N.Z. Army Medical Corps, while the Collars only have "N.Z.A.M.C".
Above, Left: A gilt fired brass and Silver Officers Cap badge to the Territorial "N.Z.M.C." (New Zealand Medical Corps). Blades to back, but no maker mark.
Above, Center & Right: A matching Cap and collar in darkened bronze for a Officer in the Territorial "N.Z.M.C." Separate lower banner with the words "N.Z.M.C." on each. No maker mark. |
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Above Right:
Top Row: A darkened copper set of cap and collar badges to the Territorial "N.Z..M.C." All have to back the maker mark of "Stokes & Sons, Melb".
Bottom Row: Same as above, but in a gilt finish. Solid backed and with the maker mark of "Stokes & Sons, Melb".
Top Row: A darkened copper set of cap and collar badges to the Territorial "N.Z..M.C." All have to back the maker mark of "Stokes & Sons, Melb".
Bottom Row: Same as above, but in a gilt finish. Solid backed and with the maker mark of "Stokes & Sons, Melb".
Opposite:
A selection of gilt brass or darkened copper Collar's and a Cap badge to center. None are marked but some have flat, hex lugs to back, while others have thin wire.
Note the differences in styles of crown.
All have the "N.Z.M.C" banner.
A selection of gilt brass or darkened copper Collar's and a Cap badge to center. None are marked but some have flat, hex lugs to back, while others have thin wire.
Note the differences in styles of crown.
All have the "N.Z.M.C" banner.
Above: A selection of "N.Z. Medical Corps" Cap and Collar badges with that wording in their lower banners. Worn from 1915, two of the badges have a slider, so a British feel to their manufacture. The Cap and Collar with lugs, are thin wire. None have a maker mark.
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Above: A selection of WW1 worn (and beyond) Cap and collar badges to the "New Zealand Medical Corps" (in lower banner).
Far Left: A rare gilt fired bass and silver collar badge with lower banner saying "New Zealand Medical Corps". Stamped to back "J R Gaunt, London". Top Left: A solid, gilt brass Officers Cap badge by "Firmin, London" with blades to back. Top Center: A darkened bladed Bronze Officers badge made by "Firmin, London" Top Right: A darkened bladed Bronze Officers badge made by "J R Gaunt, London" Bottom Row: A darkened bronze Officers set. The Cap is not marked, but solid to back, with lugs. The two Collars are solid bronze, and impressed to "J R Gaunt, London" |
Above: A selection of cap and collars with "New Zealand Medical Corps" to lower banner.
Top Left: Single piece cap badge, gilt brass, with copper looped lugs Top Center: Gilt brass, but with flat hex type lugs to back. Top Right: Solid crown, with copper looped lugs. Center Row Left: Darkened copper pair of collar, with small crown to top. Solid to back. Center and Bottom: A small pair of collars in brass, voided crown Center Row Right: Gilt brass pair of collars with "J R Gaunt, London" plaque to back. Bottom Left & Right: A small pair of collars in brass, non-voided crown |
Above Top & Middle: A pair of matching gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Medal Corps by "J R Gaunt, London". Short hex type brass lugs to back.
Above Bottom: A single brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Medical Corps by "Stokes & Sons, Melb". Copper looped lugs to back. Note the stippled finish between the letters to front, a characteristic of this manufacturer. |
In 1947, the New Zealand Medical Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" to their title. This then meant a change to their badges.
Opposite Top: A matching silver and gilt brass set, all marked "S" to back of crown for "Silver" to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Otherwise not maker marked.
Opposite Bottom: A gilt brass Cap and Collar other ranks set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. The Collars are super rare, while the Cap badge is relatively common, indicating that the collars were not widely issued or worn.
Opposite Top: A matching silver and gilt brass set, all marked "S" to back of crown for "Silver" to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Otherwise not maker marked.
Opposite Bottom: A gilt brass Cap and Collar other ranks set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. The Collars are super rare, while the Cap badge is relatively common, indicating that the collars were not widely issued or worn.
Opposite Top: A gilt fired silver (not marked) and brass Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Note the Queens crown, so worn post 1952.
Opposite Middle and Bottom: A matching set of cap and collars in gilt fired brass and silver (not marked) to the New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Maker marked to back of Cap badge to "J R Gaunt, London".
Opposite Middle and Bottom: A matching set of cap and collars in gilt fired brass and silver (not marked) to the New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Maker marked to back of Cap badge to "J R Gaunt, London".
Opposite Top Row: A anodised aluminium staybrite set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. These have lugs to back, and the cap is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, B'ham".
Opposite Middle Row: A anodised aluminium staybrite set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. These have pins and clutches to back, and the cap is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London". Note the collars are opposing, with the heads of the serpents facing inwards.
Opposite Bottom Row: A darkened metal collar badge pair to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Both have pins and clutches to back. Note the opposing heads of the serpents to center.
Opposite Middle Row: A anodised aluminium staybrite set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. These have pins and clutches to back, and the cap is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London". Note the collars are opposing, with the heads of the serpents facing inwards.
Opposite Bottom Row: A darkened metal collar badge pair to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Both have pins and clutches to back. Note the opposing heads of the serpents to center.
Opposite Left: A darkened Brass, 1908 Patt 19mm button to the "New Zealand Medical Corps" to edge and the maker details for "J R Gaunt & Son, London" to back.
Opposite Right: A gilt brass 19mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps", with Kings Crown and makers details for "Gaunt, London" to back. Post 1947
Opposite Right: A gilt brass 19mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps", with Kings Crown and makers details for "Gaunt, London" to back. Post 1947
Opposite Left: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with brass backing, 19mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps", with Queens crown to edge (so post 1952) and the maker details for "Badge & Button, London" to back.
Opposite Right: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with brass backing, 16mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps", with Queens crown to edge (so post 1952) and the maker details for "Gaunt, London" to back.
Opposite Right: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with brass backing, 16mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps", with Queens crown to edge (so post 1952) and the maker details for "Gaunt, London" to back.
Opposite: A older style cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Gold embroidered letters on a Maroon felt background.
Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps
The Corps first formed in 1908 as the New Zealand Medical Corps Nursing Reserve. Its title was changed in 1915 to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service.
Opposite Left: A silver and enamel broach badge (worn on the lapel of the Nurses Uniform) to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service (N.Z.A.N.S). Maker marked to back to "M & K Ltd" and "Silver", it also has a safety chain and pin attached.
Opposite Right: Same badge as above to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service, but this time maker marked to "C. M. Bay" and "St Silver".
Opposite Center: A Veterans association badge(?) to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service in gilt brass and enamel. No maker mark.
Opposite Left: A silver and enamel broach badge (worn on the lapel of the Nurses Uniform) to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service (N.Z.A.N.S). Maker marked to back to "M & K Ltd" and "Silver", it also has a safety chain and pin attached.
Opposite Right: Same badge as above to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service, but this time maker marked to "C. M. Bay" and "St Silver".
Opposite Center: A Veterans association badge(?) to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service in gilt brass and enamel. No maker mark.
In 1953 the service was reorganised into the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps (R.N.Z.N.C.).
Opposite Left: A broach badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps in silver and enamel. Maker marked to back to "M & K Ltd" and "Silver".
Opposite Right: A silver washed metal and enamel badge with safety chain and pin attached. No maker mark.
Opposite Left: A broach badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps in silver and enamel. Maker marked to back to "M & K Ltd" and "Silver".
Opposite Right: A silver washed metal and enamel badge with safety chain and pin attached. No maker mark.
Opposite Top: A gilt fired brass and Silver (not marked) Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. These are not maker marked.
Opposite Bottom: A gilt metal and silver plate (not marked) other ranks set of Cap and collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Note the collar badges are smaller compared to the top set.
Opposite Bottom: A gilt metal and silver plate (not marked) other ranks set of Cap and collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Note the collar badges are smaller compared to the top set.
Two variations on the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps Cap Badge.
Opposite Left: A heavily gilt metal, two piece (separate lower banner applied) Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. It has screw fittings to back. No maker mark.
Opposite Right: A single piece, two tone anodised aluminium or staybrite Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Not maker marked.
Opposite Left: A heavily gilt metal, two piece (separate lower banner applied) Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. It has screw fittings to back. No maker mark.
Opposite Right: A single piece, two tone anodised aluminium or staybrite Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Not maker marked.
Opposite: A Officers bullion thread and cloth Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps.
No maker mark to back.
No maker mark to back.
Above: A pair of cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Grey embroidered letters on a red background.
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Above: A 26mm anodised aluminium staybrite button to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Maker marked to "Gaunt, London".
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Royal New Zealand Electrical & Mechanical Engineers
The New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers formed in September 1946, and were granted the prefix "Royal" in July 1947.
The 2nd pattern of UK badge was adopted by the Corps, with the only distinguish feature being the title on the Cap badge, otherwise the collars are the same as what the UK and Canada wore.
Opposite: A gilt fired brass and Silver Cap and collar set to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. All are maker marked with "J R Gaunt, London" to back, and the collars are marked with a "S" for Silver.
The 2nd pattern of UK badge was adopted by the Corps, with the only distinguish feature being the title on the Cap badge, otherwise the collars are the same as what the UK and Canada wore.
Opposite: A gilt fired brass and Silver Cap and collar set to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. All are maker marked with "J R Gaunt, London" to back, and the collars are marked with a "S" for Silver.
Opposite: Variations in the Other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.
Left: A larger crown type with broader letters and banner to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Right: Smaller crown type and smaller banner to the New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Long copper looped lugs to back, but again, no maker mark.
Left: A larger crown type with broader letters and banner to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Right: Smaller crown type and smaller banner to the New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Long copper looped lugs to back, but again, no maker mark.
Opposite: A post 1952 set in gilt fired brass and silver to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Cap badge is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London". Both collars are not marked to back.
Above: A anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and collar set to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. The Cap badge is lugged and marker marked to "J R Gaunt London". The two collars have pins to back.
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Above Left: The last pattern of Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. It has screw posts to back, but is not maker marked. Gilt and white metal.
Above Right: A two tone Cap anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, on Corps colours backing. |
Opposite: Two cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Both are gold letters on a dark blue background. Note the variation in letter sizing due to manufacturer variation.
The Corps was absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Logistic Regiment on the 9th of December 1996, and its badges and insignia no longer worn.
The Corps was absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Logistic Regiment on the 9th of December 1996, and its badges and insignia no longer worn.
Royal New Zealand Education Corps
The New Zealand Army Education Welfare Service was established towards the end of WW1. On the 15th of Sept 1954, the unit became the New Zealand Army Education Corps.
Opposite Top: A gilt fired brass and silver Cap and Collar badge set to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. All have Copper loops to back and the maker mark of "Mayer & Kean Ltd, NZ".
Opposite Below: A gilt brass and white metal Cap and Collar badge set to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. All have Copper loops to back and the maker mark of "Mayer & Kean Ltd, NZ".
Opposite Top: A gilt fired brass and silver Cap and Collar badge set to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. All have Copper loops to back and the maker mark of "Mayer & Kean Ltd, NZ".
Opposite Below: A gilt brass and white metal Cap and Collar badge set to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. All have Copper loops to back and the maker mark of "Mayer & Kean Ltd, NZ".
Above: A two piece, anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge set to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. No maker mark, and two long pins to back. Yet to see any Collar badges to match this Cap.
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In November 1963, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal".
Above Top: A two piece, anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar badge set to to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps. No maker mark, and two long pins to back or each. Above Bottom: A two piece anodised aluminium staybrite Cap with slider to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps. Maker marked to "London Badge & Buttons Co Ltd." |
Opposite: A Light blue embroidered letter on black background cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps.
Opposite: 4 different sizes in Anodised Aluminium Staybrite buttons (from left to right):
- 25mm with N.Z.A.E.C to front and "Gaunt, London" to back.
- 20mm with R.N.Z.A.E.C to front and "Gaunt, London" to back.
- 17mm with R.N.Z.A.E.C to front and "Firmin, London" to back.
- 14mm Hat button with R.N.Z.A.E.C to front and "Firmin, London" to back.
- 25mm with N.Z.A.E.C to front and "Gaunt, London" to back.
- 20mm with R.N.Z.A.E.C to front and "Gaunt, London" to back.
- 17mm with R.N.Z.A.E.C to front and "Firmin, London" to back.
- 14mm Hat button with R.N.Z.A.E.C to front and "Firmin, London" to back.
New Zealand Army Legal Service
The New Zealand Army Legal Department formed in 1927, and in November 1950, it changed its title to the New Zealand Army Legal Service.
Opposite: A pair of collars to the New Zealand Army Legal Service. Very similar to the British and Australian version, but note the words in the outer wreath "Army Legal Services". Cap and collar appear to be the same design, and the collars do NOT have opposing lions to top.
Left Collar is a multi-piece silver or silver plate and enamel example, with pins to back. No maker mark.
Right Collar is a single piece silver or silver plate and resin example, with looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
Opposite: A pair of collars to the New Zealand Army Legal Service. Very similar to the British and Australian version, but note the words in the outer wreath "Army Legal Services". Cap and collar appear to be the same design, and the collars do NOT have opposing lions to top.
Left Collar is a multi-piece silver or silver plate and enamel example, with pins to back. No maker mark.
Right Collar is a single piece silver or silver plate and resin example, with looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
Opposite: A white letter on dark maroon coloured background shoulder title to the New Zealand Army Legal Service.
Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps
The New Zealand Armoured Corps was formed on the 29th of March 1944 from the nine existing Mounted Rifle Regiments and the 18th, 19th and 20th Battalions of the 2nd NZEF serving in Italy.
As they were already serving outside New Zealand, the Corps badge would have been the "standard" New Zealand Onwards Cap Badge and Collars.
Some men sort to distinguish themselves from other units, and locally "unofficial" badges to the New Zealand Armoured Corps exist.
Opposite Top: A standard New Zealand Onwards Cap badge, which has had its center removed and a WW1 style tank soldered to center, with separate flat brass "NZ" to base. Wire copper lugs, but no maker mark to back.
Opposite Bottom: A pair of opposing (note the center side turret gun on the tank, each points inwards) Bronze Officers Onwards collars with a silver or silver plated tank attached via wires to center. No maker mark to back.
As they were already serving outside New Zealand, the Corps badge would have been the "standard" New Zealand Onwards Cap Badge and Collars.
Some men sort to distinguish themselves from other units, and locally "unofficial" badges to the New Zealand Armoured Corps exist.
Opposite Top: A standard New Zealand Onwards Cap badge, which has had its center removed and a WW1 style tank soldered to center, with separate flat brass "NZ" to base. Wire copper lugs, but no maker mark to back.
Opposite Bottom: A pair of opposing (note the center side turret gun on the tank, each points inwards) Bronze Officers Onwards collars with a silver or silver plated tank attached via wires to center. No maker mark to back.
On the 12th of July 1947, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" and changed its title to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps.
Above: A well worn Bronze and Silver (marked S for Silver to behind crown) Officers cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. Maker marked to back base to "J R Gaunt, London". |
Above: A other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps in white metal. No maker mark, but note the backing flash of dark green material with red behind the badge.
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Opposite: A gilt fired brass and silver or silver plate (the Cap is not marked as such to back) Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps.
Kings crown, and note the collars are opposing, with the mid side turret gun pointing in either direction.
Cap badge is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London"
Both Collars are impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London" and have "S" to back of crown to indicate the tank to center is Silver.
Kings crown, and note the collars are opposing, with the mid side turret gun pointing in either direction.
Cap badge is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London"
Both Collars are impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London" and have "S" to back of crown to indicate the tank to center is Silver.
Opposite Top: With a change in Monarch in 1952, the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps Cap and collar badge was updated to reflect the new crown. A set in gilt fired brass and Silver or Silver plate (not marked to back). All three have "J R Gaunt, London"to back. Note the collars are opposing.
Opposite Bottom: A set of Cap badge and Collars in anodised aluminium staybrite to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. One piece, and two tone, the Cap has lugs to back, while the collars have pins and clutches. The collars are again opposing.
Opposite Bottom: A set of Cap badge and Collars in anodised aluminium staybrite to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. One piece, and two tone, the Cap has lugs to back, while the collars have pins and clutches. The collars are again opposing.
- Above: A cloth shoulder title in yellow thread on a dark green background to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps.
- Opposite: A pre 1952 Patt 19mm, Kings Crown, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Armoured Corps. Maker marked to "Gaunt, London". |
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1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish) Royal NZ Armoured Corps.
The New Zealand Scottish Regiment formed as a Territorial unit on the 17th of January 1939. It reformed as 1st Divisional Regiment, R.N.Z.A.C (New Zealand Scottish) in 1949. Later this title was changed to 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish).
The Regiment was formally disbanded on 16 April 2016.
Opposite: A white metal, early type cap badge to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish). Its on a black and red Tam-o-Shanter. The hat is marked inside to "Macpack" and has a black ribbon bow to back. The Cap badge is not maker marked.
The Regiment was formally disbanded on 16 April 2016.
Opposite: A white metal, early type cap badge to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish). Its on a black and red Tam-o-Shanter. The hat is marked inside to "Macpack" and has a black ribbon bow to back. The Cap badge is not maker marked.
Opposite Left: A silver or chrome plated on copper cap badge to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish). No maker mark to back.
Opposite Right: A modern issue of the badge in chromed metal. The regiment continued to wear the kings crowned badge until their disbandment in 1990. No maker mark.
Opposite Right: A modern issue of the badge in chromed metal. The regiment continued to wear the kings crowned badge until their disbandment in 1990. No maker mark.
Above: A pair of white metal collar badges to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish). No maker mark to back.
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Above Left: A cast white metal collar to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish). No maker mark to back.
Above Right: A white metal sporan badge to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish). Large single flat lug to back, but no maker name. |
Above: A pair of two different types of cloth shoulder titles to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish).
Yellow embroidered letters on a dark green background. |
Above: At some stage in the late 1970's/80's the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish) reissued their badges in staybrite. The above Cap badge is in a chrome like metal, solid to back, with two long lugs.
The Collars either side are in cast aluminium, with a thumb-tack stuck to back. The bottom two collars are chromed metal. |
Opposite: The tank badge is worn on the right upper sleeve by the R.N.Z.A.C and at the time by the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish).
Top: A embroidered thread example on course khaki wool backing. No maker mark.
Middle: Like above, but on a finer khaki backing. No maker mark.
Bottom: A silver bullion on black material backing. No maker mark.
Top: A embroidered thread example on course khaki wool backing. No maker mark.
Middle: Like above, but on a finer khaki backing. No maker mark.
Bottom: A silver bullion on black material backing. No maker mark.
Royal New Zealand Dental Corps
The New Zealand Dental Service Corps formed on the 7th of November 1915. It was designated the New Zealand Dental Corps on the 24th of Feb 1916.
It was in all major WW1 theaters as part of the New Zealand Field Ambulance.
Opposite Top Left: A darkened brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Hex type brass lugs to back, but no maker mark, probably New Zealand made.
Opposite Top Center and Right: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Hex type brass lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Bottom Left and Right: A gilt pair of brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Copper looped lugs, and no maker mark.
Opposite Bottom Center: A solid brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Copper D shaped looped lugs, and maker stamped to "Mayer & Kean, Wellington".
It was in all major WW1 theaters as part of the New Zealand Field Ambulance.
Opposite Top Left: A darkened brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Hex type brass lugs to back, but no maker mark, probably New Zealand made.
Opposite Top Center and Right: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Hex type brass lugs to back, but no maker mark.
Opposite Bottom Left and Right: A gilt pair of brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Copper looped lugs, and no maker mark.
Opposite Bottom Center: A solid brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Copper D shaped looped lugs, and maker stamped to "Mayer & Kean, Wellington".
Above Top Center: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. D shaped copper looped lugs to back and a maker plaque to "J R Gaunt, London".
Above Middle Row: A pair of opposing collars to the New Zealand Dental Corps. One has been blackened, while the other is a dull gilt brass. No maker mark. Above Bottom Center: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. D shaped copper looped lugs to back and a maker plaque to "J R Gaunt, London". Note this badge is only partly void around the kiwi to base. |
Above Top & Middle: A pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Dental Corps (N.Z.D.C.). Both titles have hex type brass lugs to back and a maker mark impressed to "J R Gaunt, London".
Above Bottom: A single gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Dental Corps (N.Z.D.C). Half size compare to the two above, so I presume Officers and for Mess Dress. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back, and has two D shaped copper looped lugs. |
In July 1947, the corps was awarded the prefix "Royal". It does not seemed to have updated its kings crown badges to reflect this.
Above Top Center: Post 1952, gilt fired brass and frosted Silver Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. No maker to back, with the center part of the badge held on by wires. Above Left, Right and bottom: Post 1952, gilt brass and Silver or Silver plate (not marked) Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. Maker marked on all to "M & K Ltd, Wellington". The center on all is held on by two wires bent to back. |
Above Top Center: Post 1952, gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. Maker marked to "M & K Ltd, Wellington". The white metal center is sweated onto the brass backing.
Above Top, Right and Left: a single piece, dull aluminium Collar badge pair to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. No maker mark and with pin and clutches to back. Above Bottom Left, Center and Right. A two tone, anodised aluminium staybrite Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. No maker mark and a mix of lugs and pin/clutches to back. |
Above: A cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps.
Yellow letters on a dark green backing. |
Above: A Gilt brass shoulder strap button to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. Bolt thread to back and the maker details of "Gaunt, London".
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Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department
As mentioned in the section covering the New Zealand Volunteer Badges. the New Zealand Chaplains' Department existed as far back as the Maori Wars. From 1911, the badge they wore on their peaked Cap and Collars, featured the Kings crown.
Opposite Top Center: A darkened copper Cap badge to the New Zealand Chaplains' Department with blades to back. No maker mark.
Opposite Middle and Bottom Rows: A darkened copper cap and collar badge set made by "K. C. Luke, Melb".
From 1937 the New Zealand Chaplains' Department was given approval to wear all British Chaplains badges.
Opposite Top Center: A darkened copper Cap badge to the New Zealand Chaplains' Department with blades to back. No maker mark.
Opposite Middle and Bottom Rows: A darkened copper cap and collar badge set made by "K. C. Luke, Melb".
From 1937 the New Zealand Chaplains' Department was given approval to wear all British Chaplains badges.
Opposite Top Center: A Kings crown, gilt fired brass, enamel and Silver Sash badge used by both the British and New Zealand Chaplains' Department. No maker mark and broach fitting to back.
Opposite Top Left & Right: A pair of Kings crown, gilt brass, enamel and Silver plated Collar badges used by both the British and New Zealand Chaplains' Department. No maker mark and marked "P" for plate to back with D shaped copper looped lugs.
Opposite Bottom Row: A Cap and Collar badge set to both the British and New Zealand Chaplains' Department. No maker mark to back.
In July 1947, the Department was awarded the prefix "Royal" and became the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department.
Opposite Top Left & Right: A pair of Kings crown, gilt brass, enamel and Silver plated Collar badges used by both the British and New Zealand Chaplains' Department. No maker mark and marked "P" for plate to back with D shaped copper looped lugs.
Opposite Bottom Row: A Cap and Collar badge set to both the British and New Zealand Chaplains' Department. No maker mark to back.
In July 1947, the Department was awarded the prefix "Royal" and became the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department.
Above Top Center: A post 1952, Queens Crown Cap badge worn by either the British or Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department. Note the small crown to top.
Above, Top Left & Right: A Pair of gilt brass, enamel and silver or silver plated Collar badges to either the British or Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department. Again, note the smaller crown to top. Above Bottom Row: A gilt brass Cap and Collar set to the British or Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department. Larger crown to top, but no maker mark. |
In 1980, the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department were given permission to wear their own distinctive badge.
Above: A single piece Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department. Made from plated and gilt metal, with purple resin or paint to center. Flat to back, and no maker mark. |
At some stage Officers of the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department were authorised to wear silver or anodised aluminium crosses on their green Summer and Combat Dress uniforms as Collar badges.
Above is a selection of Chaplains Collar badges, from left to right: Top Row: - A gilt pair of crosses with two pins to back, and held onto the uniform by clutches. - A pair of dull silvered metal crosses, again, two clutch pins to back to each. - A wide pair of crosses in Silver (not marked). Single pin lug to back. |
Opposite Bottom Row:
- A pair of crosses in Silver (not marked). Two pin lug to back. - A pair of crosses in Silver (not marked). Two D shaped looped lugs to back. - A pair of gilt metal crosses. Two screw posts to back of each. Above: A cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department. White letters on a Purple background. |
Opposite: A selection of anodised aluminium staybrite buttons to the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department (from left to right):
- 25mm button with "Gaunt, London" to back.
- a pair of 18mm shoulder strap buttons with "Gaunt, London" to back. They have a thread to back, with backing plate.
- 19mm button with "Gaunt, London" to back.
- 25mm button with "Gaunt, London" to back.
- a pair of 18mm shoulder strap buttons with "Gaunt, London" to back. They have a thread to back, with backing plate.
- 19mm button with "Gaunt, London" to back.
New Zealand Intelligence Corps
The New Zealand Intelligence Corps formed briefly during WW2. The opposite badge was issued.
In 1987 the corps re-formed, but no New Zealand badge was issued, so the Corps worn the British version of the Intelligence Corps Cap and Collar badges in white metal.
In 1994 the corps was given permission to wear a New Zealand version, and the WW2 pattern was updated with a Queens crown.
In 1987 the corps re-formed, but no New Zealand badge was issued, so the Corps worn the British version of the Intelligence Corps Cap and Collar badges in white metal.
In 1994 the corps was given permission to wear a New Zealand version, and the WW2 pattern was updated with a Queens crown.
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Opposite: A selection of post 1994 Cap and collar badge to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. Top: A Cap badge with lugs, lighter Brown finish and maker marked to "Mayer & Toye, Wgtn, N.Z" + Phone number.
Bottom: A dark coloured Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. No maker mark to back, and all have pins and clutches. Above: A cloth shoulder title to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. Green embroidered letters on a grey background. |
New Zealand Army Air Corps
The New Zealand Army Air Corps was established on the 9th of August 1963. Their badge is based on the British version.
Top & Bottom Center: A silver plated metal Cap badge worn by the New Zealand Army Air Corps. No maker mark to back.
The top version has pins and clutches to back.
The bottom version has slivered looped lugs to back.
Right: A pair of opposing collars, 1st type, to the New Zealand Army Air Corps in silver coloured anodised aluminium. No maker mark and pins and clutches to back.
Left: A pair of opposing collars, 2nd type, to the New Zealand Army Air Corps in silver coloured anodised aluminium. No maker mark and single slot like lug to back.
Top & Bottom Center: A silver plated metal Cap badge worn by the New Zealand Army Air Corps. No maker mark to back.
The top version has pins and clutches to back.
The bottom version has slivered looped lugs to back.
Right: A pair of opposing collars, 1st type, to the New Zealand Army Air Corps in silver coloured anodised aluminium. No maker mark and pins and clutches to back.
Left: A pair of opposing collars, 2nd type, to the New Zealand Army Air Corps in silver coloured anodised aluminium. No maker mark and single slot like lug to back.
Opposite: A pair of dark blue embroidered lettered on light blue backing, shoulder titles to the New Zealand Army Air Corps. The bottom title is possibly unissued, and shows the stitching to top and bottom, which indicates were to cut and sew to the soldier.