New Zealand Corps A to N
This page and the next covers the badges worn by the New Zealand Corps.
Some 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 these 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.
Some 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 these 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.
Royal New Zealand Artillery
With the formation of the permanent New Zealand Army in 1911 from the 1909 Defence Act, a Territorial Artillery Force also came into existence from the Regiment of New Zealand Field Artillery and the New Zealand Garrison Artillery Volunteers.
Members joined the New Zealand Artillery during WW1 and saw action overseas at Gallipoli, in the Middle East and on the Western Front.
The Royal New Zealand Artillery still existed, and were part of the permanent New Zealand Army, which maintained a instructional and cadre role.
Members joined the New Zealand Artillery during WW1 and saw action overseas at Gallipoli, in the Middle East and on the Western Front.
The Royal New Zealand Artillery still existed, and were part of the permanent New Zealand Army, which maintained a instructional and cadre role.
- Above: A pre-WW1 Cap badge in bronze (possibly Officers) to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Well polished to front, with three copper looped lugs to back. The shape of the lugs suggests a Stokes & Sons make, but no maker mark to back.
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- Above: A similar pre-WW1 Cap badge in gilt brass to the New Zealand Field Artillery. The finish to front is well toned, with three copper looped lugs to back. The shape again of the lugs suggests a Stokes & Sons make, but no maker mark to back.
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- Above: A pair of darkened brass collar badges to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Note the 7 flamed grenade worn by the Artillery. Both have the separate lower banner with N.Z.F.A, which has been added to the base of the grenade. Both have two copper looped lugs, in a North/South configuration. A maker plaque, to the back base of the grenade is to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A single darkened bronze collar badge to the New Zealand Field Artillery. Separate lower banner with N.Z.F.A, which has been added to the base of the grenade. Again two copper looped lugs, in a North/South configuration. No maker mark.
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The following 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.
- Above: A curved, gilt brass pair of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). Maker marked to "J R Gaunt London" on the back of the "Z", and with two short hex type brass lugs to back on each.
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- Above: A curved, gilt brass pair of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). One is maker marked to "J R Gaunt London" on the back of the "Z", the other has no maker. Both have two copper looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A curved, gilt brass pair of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). One is maker marked to "Stokes & Sons" on the back of the "F" in a straight line. The other is marked "Stokes & Sons Melb" in a small oval maker mark to the back of the "Z". Both have two thick copper looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A curved, gilt brass pair of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). Maker marked to "J R Gaunt London" on the back of the "F", and with two short hex type brass lugs to back on each.
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- Above: A curved, gilt brass pair of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). Maker marked to "Tiptaft" on the back of the "F", and with two short copper looped lugs to back of each.
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- Above Top: A curved, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker mark, and well polished. It appears die stamped, and has two long hex type, thin, brass lugs to back.
- Above Base: A curved, gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker mark, and two short hex type brass lugs to back. |
- Opposite are some hand-cut New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A) shoulder titles
- Top: A curved, sheet brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker mark, and has two long hex type, thin, brass lugs to back.
- Middle: A curved, sheet brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker mark, and has two long hex type, thin, brass lugs to back.
- Base: A curved, sheet brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker mark, and has two short hex type, thin, brass lugs to back.
- Top: A curved, sheet brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker mark, and has two long hex type, thin, brass lugs to back.
- Middle: A curved, sheet brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker mark, and has two long hex type, thin, brass lugs to back.
- Base: A curved, sheet brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Field Artillery (N.Z.F.A). No maker mark, and has two short hex type, thin, brass lugs to back.
Post 1911, I presume that the New Zealand Garrison Artillery continued to wear their previous Volunteer era badges for a period.
- Above: A gilt brass cap badge to No. 1 Company - (Auckland Naval Artillery Volunteers) New Zealand Garrison Artillery. Two copper looped lugs to back, fixed behind the top "UBIQUE" banner. No maker mark.
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- Above: A pair of darkened brass collar badges to the New Zealand Garrison Artillery. Note the 7 flamed grenade worn by the Artillery. Both have the separate lower banner with N.Z.G.A, which has been added to the base of the grenade. Both have two copper looped lugs, in a North/South configuration. A maker plaque, to the back base of the grenade is to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above Top: A matching pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Garrison Artillery. Both have hex type brass lugs to back and the maker mark impressed to the back of the "Z" to "J R Gaunt London".
- Above Bottom: A single gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Garrison Artillery. With two hex type brass lugs to back it has the maker mark impressed in a curve to the back of the "G" to "J R Gaunt London". |
- Above: A gilt brass and enamel button-hole badge worn by members of the New Zealand Garrison Artillery either on civilian attire or as a veterans association badge. Two piece, with some damage to wreath to the blue enamel to front, it is maker stamped to the button-hole fitting to "J R Gaunt & Son London".
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- Above: A gilt brass and enamel button-hole badge worn by members of the Horse Transport New Zealand Garrison Artillery (H.T.N.Z.G.A), either on civilian attire or as a veterans association badge. Single piece, with brooch fitting to back. Maker impressed to "J R Gaunt London".
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The New Zealand Garrison Artillery, in conjunction with the Royal New Zealand Artillery mounted Harbour examination batteries at all major New Zealand ports during WW1. The examination Batteries' task was to interrogate all unidentified vessels entering New Zealand ports.
After WW1, the focus and role of the NZ Garrison Artillery diminished, with its Batteries by the 1950's, existing on paper only.
After WW1, the focus and role of the NZ Garrison Artillery diminished, with its Batteries by the 1950's, existing on paper only.
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.
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.
- Above: A solid, bronze, Officers Cap badge with separate wheel to center to the New Zealand Artillery. Maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London". It has two blades to back, at the base, behind the scroll.
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- Above: 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.
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- Above: A die stamped, bronze (?) Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Again, separate wheel to center, which does NOT spin, and three blades or tangs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A die stamped, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the 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.
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Above: A darkened copper Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note no dots to the top banner. This badge has three short copper looped lugs to back, characteristic of Stokes & Sons of Melbourne. It Is not maker marked.
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Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note no dots to the top banner. This badge has had its lugs clipped off, and a long pin, hinge and hook assembly attached to back. It Is not maker marked, but likely a Stokes & Sons made.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note two dots to top banner. Three copper looped lugs to back, along with the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt London" behind the top banner.
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- Above: A darkened bronze Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note the two dots to top banner. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. It is a mess to back, especially around the top banner.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note one dot to top banner. Three copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A darkened brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note one dot to top banner. Three copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note two dots to top banner. Three copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note one dot to top banner. The two copper lugs have been replaced with a large brass slider to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note two dots to top banner. Long brass slider to back. No maker mark.
- Above: A worn gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Note two dots to top banner. A locally made, thin sheet metal example. This has a huge wide slider to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A bronze Cap badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Possible locally made, it has a noticeable line going vertical through the top and bottom banners. Three short tangs or blades to back, though one is missing. No maker mark.
- Above: A British/Commonwealth Assistant Gunnery Instructors Sleeve Proficiency badge in gilt brass. Also worn by members of the New Zealand Artillery. Four copper looped lugs are two back.
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- Above 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.
- Above Middle: A gilt brass, single piece, 7 flame grenade Collar badge to the New Zealand Artillery. Two loops to back, but no maker mark. - Above 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. |
Above: Two gilt bass New Zealand Artillery Association badges to be worn on civilian clothes. Note both have "N.Z" to top banner.
- Above Left: A gilt brass, die stamped badge or pin. Roughly 30mm by 40mm, with a brooch fitting to back in a north/south configuration. No maker mark. - Above Right: Same again, but smaller. A gilt brass, die stamped badge or pin. Roughly 24mm by 32mm, with a brooch fitting to back in a north/south configuration. No maker mark. |
During WW1, the New Zealand Field Artillery wore a formation patch on both their service tunic and greatcoat. This was to be 1 1/2 inches below the shoulder strap on each sleeve.
- Above: 1st Battalion, New Zealand Field Artillery - Red square on a Blue circle (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 2nd Battalion, New Zealand Field Artillery - Red diamond on a Blue circle (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 3rd Battalion, New Zealand Field Artillery - Red triangle on a Blue circle (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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Opposite:
- Top: 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.
- Bottom: A WW2 era puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to all branches of the New Zealand Artillery. This came from the effects of an Officer who lived in Southland. Sadly I don't have his details. Note the colour difference between the two. This has a purple ink size mark inside to 7 1/2.
- Top: 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.
- Bottom: A WW2 era puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to all branches of the New Zealand Artillery. This came from the effects of an Officer who lived in Southland. Sadly I don't have his details. Note the colour difference between the two. This has a purple ink size mark inside to 7 1/2.
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- Above Left & Right: A WW1 puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to all branches of the New Zealand Artillery. Dark Blue/Scarlet/Dark Blue. This was worn by 43830 Cpl. William Albert Mackay. Part of the 27th Reinforcement draft to the New Zealand Field Artillery, and went on to serve with the 1st Brigade NZ Field Artillery in France and the Western Front, for 2 years and 25 days. This looks to be a "return home" Pug, with "WD" and broadarrow marks to inside, so British made. Its displayed on its side, and there are two holes to the front though which a NZA Cap badge would fit.
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.
- Above: A darkened bronze, 3 piece, die stamped Territorial Officers Cap badge to the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery. Separate wheel to center, and NEW ZEALAND to the top scroll. This badge has a separate top scroll and crown, from main body and a separate wheel. Two blades or tangs to back, at base. No maker mark.
- Opposite: A small gilt brass pin to the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery. Either a association pin or to be worn on civilian clothes, it has a brooch fitting to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: Three collar badges to the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery. All are darkened bronze, with no maker marks to back. All have two copper looped lugs in a North/South configuration. They also have a separate lower banner attached.
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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 until 1947, it maintained a in instructional and cadre role to the New Zealand Garrison Artillery, New Zealand Field Artillery and the Regiment of New Zealand Artillery.
In January 1947 the territorial Regiment of New Zealand Artillery was amalgamated with the Royal New Zealand Artillery.
In January 1947 the territorial Regiment of New Zealand Artillery was amalgamated with the Royal New Zealand Artillery.
- Above: A Bronze, curved, Officers Cap badge worn by Captain Henry Dale of the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Die stamped, with separate wheel to center, it has three long tangs or blades to back and the maker plaque of "J R Gaunt, London". His other WW2 items are below.
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- Above: A rare gilt fire, solid backed Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Three short D shaped lugs to back, and a separate wheel to center. Faint maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London" to back of lower banner.
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back.. Maker plaqued to back of top scroll to "J R Gaunt, London".
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Long tapered brass slider to back, but no maker mark.
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- Opposite: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Long slider to back, which is maker stamped to "J. W. Tiptaft & Sons Ltd, Birmingham".
- Above: A study in size. Left is a standard sized gilt fired Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery, while right is a Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery in gilt fired brass. I have seen the smaller badge called a collar, they are a Beret badge! |
- Above: A gilt fire, solid backed Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Two long looped lugs to back, and a separate wheel to center. Maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt, London" to back of lower banner.
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass, Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Wide brass slider to back, but no maker mark. Note this badge had a long life with chaps serving in Korea, still wear this Kings crown badge.
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- Above: A similar, single piece, gilt brass, Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Wide brass slider to back, but no maker mark. Note variation in crown.
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass, Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Two pressed type brass lugs to back, in a North/South configuration. No maker mark.
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- Above: In October 1941 a optional Side Hat was introduced for members of the Royal New Zealand Artillery and their Territorial counter-parts. Apparently these were worn with a Flaming grenade Artillery Collar to the side. The above hat came out of a Auckland RSA, and does not appear to have ever had a badge attached.
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- Above: to front of the Side Hat are two 12mm Brass New Zealand Forces Buttons. Both are fixed shank and marked to "Buttons Limited" over crossed swords.
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- Above: Dark material liner with just a white label sewn into the peak fold of the hat. It is stamped "N.Z (Broadarrow). D" for New Zealand Defence.
- 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: Just a top photograph of the piping to side on the hat and its Red Crown.
- 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.
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- Above: Three association pins to units within the Royal New Zealand Artillery, with Red over Blue. These pins would be worn by veterans with pride on the lapels of their jacket. Roughly 10 to 12mm in size, in enamel and brass, with a long pin to back. No maker mark.
With change of monarch in 1952, the Royal New Zealand Artillery Cap badge was also updated with the new crown.
With change of monarch in 1952, the Royal New Zealand Artillery Cap badge was also updated with the new crown.
- Above: A gilt fired brass Officers Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. A separate wheel to center, semi-solid to back, and three long copper looped lugs. No maker mark.
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- Above: A darkened bronze, Officers 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.
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- Above: A gilt brass other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Three copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A heavy, modern, 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.
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- Above: A study in size. Like the King crown versions of the Royal New Zealand Artillery badge, a Queens crown badge was also produced. Left is a standard sized gilt fired Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery, while right is a Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery in gilt brass.
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- Above: A Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Gilt brass, and probably from around the 1950's in manufacture, with pressed type looped lugs to back in a North/South config. No maker mark. Note the style of crown.
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- Above: A heavy, semi-solid, gilt brass Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Two copper looped lugs to back, in a north/south configuration, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A heavy, semi-solid, gilt brass Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Two copper looped lugs to back, in a north/south configuration, but no maker mark.
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- Above: Two darkened bronze collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. 48mm by 29mm. Slight different wear between the two, but both have separate lower banners attached to the grenade. Both also have a maker plaque attached to back with "J R Gaunt London". Two copper loops in a North/South configuration to back.
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- Above: Two darkened bronze collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Both are single piece, with no separate banner to base, and both have two copper loops in a North/South configuration to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: Two darkened bronze Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Both are single piece, with no separate banner to base, but both have two pins to back, used with clutches, in a North/South configuration to back. Maker mark, in raised letters to "J R Gaunt London" to back of banner.
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- Above: Two gilt fired brass Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. 48mm by 34mm. Both are two piece, with separate banner to base and two long looped lugs, in a North/South configuration to back. No maker mark to back.
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- Above: Two different finishes of Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Left is in gilt fired brass, and is single piece. Right is in darkened finish, but two piece, with separate banner to base. Both have two long looped lugs, in a North/South configuration to back. No maker mark to either.
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- Above: Two different types of anodised aluminium Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. All are a gold tone finish, which sadly fades with time. Left and Center have two pins to back, to be used with clutches, and the maker mark of "J R Gaunt London" in raised letters at the back of the banner. The Right has no maker mark and Aluminium lugs in a North/South configuration.
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- Above: Two different types of brass Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Smaller type, 39mm by 25mm. The Left and Center have two lugs to back. The Right has pins to back to be used with clutches, in a North/South configuration. All are not maker marked.
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- Above: Again smaller sized gilt brass collar badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Single piece, with two pins to back, to be used with clutches. No maker mark.
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- Above: A Queens Crown, Officers Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Multi piece, with Bullion threaded badge to center over the Corps colours of Red over Blue. No maker mark.
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- Above: Three post 1961 shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Post Office Red embroidered letters on a Purple Navy background. Just variation in thread and letter size.
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- Above: A large cloth and silver bullion thread blazer badge to a veteran of the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Measuring 10cm by 10cm, with Queens crown to top.
No maker mark to back, and has a black paper backing. |
- Above: A rather rare 1911 pattern New Zealand "Territorial" Artillery. Produced in 1911 for the establishment of the Territorial Corps, but then not widely worn, but rather the below buttons were worn by all Permanent and Territorial units. It has a fixed shank, and is 25mm, with a maker mark to "The New Zealand Clothing Factory".
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The following buttons were worn by all formations of the New Zealand Artillery.
- Above Left: A 1911 pat New Zealand Artillery 23 mm, fixed shank brass button. Maker marked to "Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham".
- Above Right: A 1911 pat New Zealand Artillery 17 mm, fixed shank brass button. Maker marked to "Smith & Wright Ltd, Bham". |
- Above Left: Same again, but in darkened finish, a 1911 pat New Zealand Artillery 23 mm, fixed shank brass button. Maker marked to "Smith & Wright Ltd, Birmingham".
- Above Right: Again, a 1911 pat darkened New Zealand Artillery 17 mm, fixed shank brass button. Maker marked to "Smith & Wright Ltd, Bham". |
- Opposite Left: A 1911 pat New Zealand Artillery 23 mm, flexible shank brass button. Maker marked to "Smith & Wright Limited, Birmingham".
- Opposite Right: A 1911 pat New Zealand Artillery 17 mm, fixed shank brass button. Maker marked to "Buttons Limited, Bham".
- Opposite Right: A 1911 pat New Zealand Artillery 17 mm, fixed shank brass button. Maker marked to "Buttons Limited, Bham".
- Above Left: A 1911 pat New Zealand Artillery 23 mm, fixed shank brass button. Maker marked to "Special Quality".
- Above Right: A 1911 pat New Zealand Artillery 17 mm, fixed shank brass button. Maker marked to "Supere Quality". |
Buttons by Firmin London.
- Above Left: A darkened bronze 24mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Artillery. Maker marked to back to "Firmin & Sons Ltd, London". - Above Center: A darkened brass 24mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Artillery. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London". - Above Right: A gilt brass 24mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Artillery. Maker marked to back to "Firmin, London". |
- Above Left: A gilt brass, 24mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Artillery. Maker marked to back to "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne".
- Above Right: A gilt brass, 16mm fixed shank button to the New Zealand Artillery. Maker marked to back to "Stokes & Sons, Melb". |
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A study in sizes of Gaunt made buttons:
- Opposite Left: A 24mm 1911 Patt, flexible shank gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery. Maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Opposite 2nd Left: A 21mm 1911 Patt, flexible shank, gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Opposite 2nd Right: A 17mm 1911 Patt, flexible shank, gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Opposite Right: A pair of 12mm, flexible shank, Officers peaked cap side buttons (for the chin-strap) to the NZ Artillery. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Opposite Left: A 24mm 1911 Patt, flexible shank gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery. Maker marked to back to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Opposite 2nd Left: A 21mm 1911 Patt, flexible shank, gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Opposite 2nd Right: A 17mm 1911 Patt, flexible shank, gilt brass button to the NZ Artillery. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Opposite Right: A pair of 12mm, flexible shank, Officers peaked cap side buttons (for the chin-strap) to the NZ Artillery. Maker marked to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
At some stage in the 1930's or 40's, the pattern of Artillery button was changed to the opposite versions.
- Left: A 26mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J. R. Gaunt & Son, London".
- 2nd Left: A 24mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, LondonEngld".
- 2nd Right: A 24mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Above Right: A 17mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J R Gaunt & Son Ld, London Eng".
- Left: A 26mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J. R. Gaunt & Son, London".
- 2nd Left: A 24mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, LondonEngld".
- 2nd Right: A 24mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J R Gaunt & Son Ltd, London".
- Above Right: A 17mm Gilt brass version to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "J R Gaunt & Son Ld, London Eng".
- Above Left: A 24mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "Firmin London".
- Above Right: A 16mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "Firmin London". |
- Above: A 23mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "Buttons Limited, Birmingham".
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- Above: A 16mm gilt brass, fixed shank button to the NZ Artillery with maker mark to "B & P Ltd, B'ham".
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- Opposite Left: A post 1947 19mm, gilt brass, fixed shank Kings crown button to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Maker mark to "Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Middle: A post 1952 26mm, anodised aluminium, gold tone, fixed shank Queens crown button to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Maker mark to "Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Right: A post 1952 18mm, anodised aluminium, gold tone, fixed shank Queens crown button to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Maker mark to "Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Middle: A post 1952 26mm, anodised aluminium, gold tone, fixed shank Queens crown button to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Maker mark to "Gaunt, London".
- Opposite Right: A post 1952 18mm, anodised aluminium, gold tone, fixed shank Queens crown button to the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Maker mark to "Gaunt, London".
- Above: Gunner qualification badges, worn on the sleeve of NCO's in the New Zealand Artillery (Corporal and above). 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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- Above: A cut, cloth sleeve badge worn by the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Embroidered field gun on a dark khaki wool background. It has a cotton backing to back. No maker label.
Opposite: Two types of cloth sleeve badge worn by the Royal New Zealand Artillery, which are unissued/uncut. Above on a dark khaki wool background, while below light khaki coloured cotton. This lower one has a newspaper liner to back, which shows that this is New Zealand made, and still talking of Pounds and Shillings, so pre 1967 (when New Zealand then moved to dollars and cents). No maker mark to either. |
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Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps
The New Zealand Army Service Corps formed on the 1st March 1913.
- Above: A solid backed, darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Maker impressed behind the crown to "J R Gaunt, London". Note this badge is lugged, with two copper loops to back.
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- Above Left: A darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. This badge has 2 tangs or blades to back (one sadly broken) and is impressed to "J R Gaunt London".
- Above Right: A darkened bronze Officers Collar badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Solid to back and impressed to "J R Gaunt London". It has two copper D shaped looped lugs to back. |
- Above: A WW2 New Zealand Army Service Corps Hat to 808521 Capt Ernest Lycette. The Cap badge is a bronze version, with two looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A close up of the bronze Cap badge to front.
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- Above: Top of the hat showing some Moth damage.
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- Above: To either side are two brass New Zealand Forces, 4 star buttons holding the leather chins-strap to
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- Above: A picture of the inside of the Officers hat, with red material padding. Extra reinforcing in the form of a velvet strip has been added to the front of the hat.
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- Above: The hat has the maker mark of "Chas. Hill & Sons, Wellington N.Z."
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- Opposite & Above: A other ranks Cap and Collar badge set in gilt brass to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. The Cap has two copper looped lugs, while the two collars have D shaped Copper looped lugs. All have a brass plaque to back with the maker details of "J R Gaunt, London"
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- Above: A light variation to the Gaunt Collars, with a non-void crown to top to the New Zealand Army Service Corps.
Both have D shaped copper loops to back and a brass plaque with the maker details of "J R Gaunt, London" |
- Above: Variations to the Collar badges to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. All have either different crowns or lugs to back. None are marker mark.
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- Opposite: A WW1 formation patch to the New Zealand Army Service Corps stationed in Egypt. A diagonal White stripe on a dark blue background. This looks to be still attached to a piece of uniform. (Ian Hamilton Collection).
- Above: A silvered or silver plated Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. No maker mark to back, but two round looped lugs used by Stokes & Sons of Melbourne. Someone has added a piece of red felt backing.
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- Above: A variation on the other ranks Cap and Collar badge to badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Both badges are in darkened copper. No maker mark, but they have short rounded lugs that Stokes & Son's of Melbourne often used at the time.
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- Opposite & Above: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. Note the crowns on the Collar badges sit lower on the Star, similar to the Cap badge. No maker mark to back, but they have thick wire looped lugs in copper, which is found on marked badges by Mayer & Kean of Wellington.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. No maker and thin wire looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. No maker and pressed type, copper lugs to back. These type are found on post WW2 badges.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. No maker and brooched to back. Slight variation on the crown, with much wear to front finish.
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- Above: A WW2 era tunic to 808521 Capt Ernest Lycette of the 2nd Res (M.T.) Coy, New Zealand Army Service Corps.
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- Above: Two bronze officers collars attached to a tailor made tunic by "A Levy Ltd, Wellington".
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- Above: In the small pocket on the right, under the belt was a travel pass dated the 3rd to 9th of April 1944 to Capt Ernest Lycette.
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Ernest saw action during WW1 at Gallipoli, in France and Italy, with the British Army. Attached to his tunic are his WW1 medal ribbon trio, also attached to a green lanyard is a 1915 dated Officers Trench whistle.
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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".
- Above 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".
- Above 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".
- Above 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".
- Above 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 WW2 Officers with two separate titles). Two loops to back to each, no maker mark.
- Opposite: A 9 ct Gold tie pin to the New Zealand Army Service Corps. It has a earlier raised crown type Collar sized badge to center, mounted on a Gold bar with long brooch fitting to back. The bar has "9ct" stamped to back. |
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- Above: A Trade Sleeve badge to that of a Wheeler or Carpenter. Light brown thread on a khaki wool backing. Thin wax like paper backing, with no maker mark (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A Trade Sleeve badge to that of a Wheeler or Carpenter in gilt brass. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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WW1 Camp Quarter Masters Stores (C.Q.M.S)
The Camp Quartermasters Stores was a unit within the New Zealand Army Service Corps during WW1. Its personnel were stationed within the training camps dotted around New Zealand. They where in charge of issuing and maintaining all Army related kit and items used by the reinforcement drafts in the Camps. They were permitted to wear a unique badge in New Zealand while serving as members of this unit.
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- Opposite & Above: A Cap and Collar badge set to the Camp Quartermasters Stores. The Cap badge is a single piece, brass with two copper wire looped lugs to back. The the above left Collar also has two copper loops, while the above right collar is brooch fitted.
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- Above: Voided collar size CQMS badges, with one in gilt brass to the left and Stirling Silver to the right. The Silver badge has a small rectangular shape to the back of the star, which I presume would be a hallmark, but I cannot read. Both the pins are missing to both badges.
- Opposite: A Camp Quartermaster Sergeant photographed with Hut 32, C Company, 18th Infantry Reinforcements. Sadly unnamed, but note his Camp Quarter Masters Stores Cap badge to his hat, and the Quartermaster Star sleeve trade patch just above his sergeants stripes. |
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- Above: A Embroidered thread and khaki wool backed Quartermaster Sergeants (QMS) rank star, worn above the rank chevrons on the sleeve, as per the picture above. This was a Army wide rank, with a QMS assigned to each oversea serving unit. A specialised course was run by the Army, and the Solider need to pass to obtain the rank and title. To back is a white cotton hessian backing cloth. No maker mark (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A variation to the Quartermaster Sergeants (QMS) rank star. This could be much earlier than WW1, and in fact Volunteer period, with the use of bullion thread and sequins to center. It also has a white paper backing, but sadly no maker mark (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps (continued).
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.
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- Opposite & Above: 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".
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- Opposite & Above: A gilt brass and white metal Cap and Collar set for the other ranks to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. No maker mark, with two copper looped lugs brazed to back of each. The Collars are harder to get, compared to the Cap badge.
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With the death of George VI in 1952, the badge changed again to accommodate the new monarch and cypher.
- Above & Opposite: A Officers Silver (? - not marked), gilt brass and enamel multi piece Cap and two Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. Queens crown, with ERII cypher. The Cap and bottom Collar pair are impressed to "J R Gaunt London. The top pair of Collars have raised letters to back to "J R Gaunt London". D shaped copper loops to all collars, while the Cap has long Copper loops to back.
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- Above: A gilt brass, enamel and chromed Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. This badge has had its lugs removed and 2 long pins affixed to back to be worn as a brooch? No maker mark.
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- Opposite: 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 any matching collars for this badge in gilt brass and white metal. |
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- Opposite & Above: A anodised aluminium Cap and Collar Badge set to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. The Cap is 2 piece, with a brass and enamel backing plate to center, stamped "T", but no maker mark. The two collars are single piece, but two tone, with a gold tone to center and silver toned frame. Both have two looped lugs to back and the raised letter maker mark of "J R Gaunt London".
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- Opposite & Above: A similar anodised aluminium Cap and Collar Badge set to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. The Cap is again stamped "T" to back, with no maker mark. The two collars are single piece, and two tone, All are not maker marked, and have two pins to back of each to be used with clutches.
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Above: 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.
- Opposite: Post 1961 cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. Note Indian Yellow embroidered letters on a Midnight Blue background. Variations in colour and letter size. |
On May the 12th 1979, the Corps was disbanded and became the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport.
Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport
The Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport formed on the 12th of May 1979.
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- Opposite & Above: A Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport. Chromed and gilt metal, with a separate gilt metal and resin center. The Cap has a metal lug bar to back, while both collars have pins and clutches. No maker mark to either.
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- 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". |
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- Opposite: Two different Post 1961 coloured titles to the Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport. Top is gold letters on a Midnight Blue 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 with the amalgamated 3 Corps
- Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (R.N.Z.E.M.E)
- Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (R.N.Z.A.O.C)
- Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport (R.N.Z.C.T)
- Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (R.N.Z.E.M.E)
- Royal New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps (R.N.Z.A.O.C)
- Royal New Zealand Corps of Transport (R.N.Z.C.T)
- Opposite: A two piece Cap and Collar badge with "large stars" to center in gilt metal and resin to the Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment. Separate oval shield with swords on a gilt metal background.
The Cap badge has screw posts to back, in a north/south configuration, while the Collar has pins and clutches.
No maker mark to either.
The Cap badge has screw posts to back, in a north/south configuration, while the Collar has pins and clutches.
No maker mark to either.
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- Opposite & Above: 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, in a north/south configuration, while the 2 Collars have pins and clutches. No maker marks.
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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.
Some of these individual units had their own school or unit cadet badge, while others wore the generic pattern of the time.
It was divided into two levels
- Junior School Cadets - Boys from 12 to 14 years old
- Senior School Cadets - Boys 14 years and older.
Some of these individual units had their own school or unit cadet badge, while others wore the generic pattern of the time.
- Above Left: A darkened bronze Edward VII Cap badge to the New Zealand Public School Cadets. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark.
- Above Right: A gilt brass Edward VII Cap badge to the New Zealand Public School Cadets. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark. |
- Above: A gilt brass George V Cap badge to the New Zealand Junior Cadets. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back.
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- Above Left: A generic Senior Cadets framed Cap badge with a separate "6 & 7" numbers to center. Two copper looped lugs to back with no maker mark.
- Above Right: A WW1 reinforcements Cap badge frame used by the 105th Senior Cadets. Two hex type brass lugs to back. |
Some of the larger schools in New Zealand issued their own Army Cadet Insignia.
- Above Left: A gilt brass, die stamp Cap badge to the Wellington Collage Cadets. Two copper wire loops to back. - Above Right: A large silver or silver plate (not marked to back) to the Nelson College Rifle Cadet Corps, with the school founding date of 1875. Two looped lugs to back. |
- Above Left: A silver badge to St Andrews College Cadets, which is in Christchurch, New Zealand. Pin backed and maker marked to "Alson" and marked "Silver".
- Above Right: A silver badge to Christchurch Boys High School (BHS) Cadets. Pin backed with maker mark to "R. F. Martin" and marked "Stg Silver". |
- Above: A silver badge (not marked) to the Christchurch Boys High School (BHS) Cadets. Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A 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 Left: Later generic, Kings crown Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Cadet Corps. Two small copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A post 1952 generic, Queens crown Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Cadet Corps. Two thick copper looped lugs and a maker mark of "Mayer & Kean Ltd, Wellington". |
- Above Left: A gilt brass, Queens crown Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Cadet Corps. Two thick type copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Center: A gilt brass, Queens crown Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Cadet Corps. Two pressed type, brass lugs to back. No maker mark. - Above Center: A modern, Queens crown Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Cadet Corps. Solid back, in gilt metal with bar lug fastener. No maker mark. |
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. Jet Black on a Post Office Red background. |
- Above: A pair of Edward VII cyphered, gilt brass , fixed shank 19mm buttons to the New Zealand Public School Cadets.
- Above: Both are 19mm, but just slightly different to back, with one with a thicker shank. Both are marked to "J R Gaunt & Son, London".
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- Above: A set of a complicated badge in gilt fired brass. All have maker details impressed for "J R Gaunt, London" to back, with D shaped looped lugs. Size 30mm by 30mm.
Used by: - NZ Senior Cadet Officers - 1911 to 1921 - Training Cadets at Trentham Camp from 1927 - Unposted Regular Service Recruits from 1932 until 1950 - Troops stationed on Fanning Island during WW2. |
- Above: A chromed plated Cap or collar badge set to the Regular Force Cadets. The badge was adopted by the Regular Force Cadets in 1950 and was either plated or in chrome from 1952.
The left and right badges have chromed looped lugs to back, with one maker marked to "Mayer & Kean Ltd, Wellington, N.Z". The center badge has two thread bolts to back, to be used with a nut. I have yet to see a opposing collar badge like the opposite gilt fired set. Size 30mm by 30mm. |
- Above: A darkened bronze version of the same badge. Maker details impressed for "J R Gaunt, London" to back, with D shaped looped lugs. Size 30mm by 30mm.
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- Above: 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. |
Royal New Zealand Engineers
The Royal New Zealand Engineer have a long history prior to 1911 as part of NZ Volunteer System.
They were established on the 15th of October 1902, with the prefix "Royal" from the 2nd Service Company of the New Zealand Permanent Force.
Their badge featured a King Edward VII Cap badge with Cypher and the title "Royal NZ Engineers".
The unit was based in Wellington and Auckland (no South Island units).
Running parallel to this were established 6 companies of New Zealand Engineer Volunteers in 1903 (some dating back to the 1880's).
Both branches of the Engineers were responsible for maintaining Submarine Mining defenses of Auckland and Wellington harbours until the Navy took over the function in 1907.
On 17th of June 1907, the Volunteers were reformed into the New Zealand Engineer Volunteer Regiment.
No. 1 Company, NZEV - Canterbury Engineer Volunteers
No. 2 Company, NZEV - Dunedin Engineer Volunteers
No. 3 Company, NZEV - Auckland Engineer Volunteers
No. 4 Company, NZEV - Wellington Engineer Volunteers
In that same year (1907) the Royal New Zealand Engineers were absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Artillery.
The NZ Engineer Volunteer Regiment continued past 1911, and became a "Corps" after WW1 on 1st of June 1923 with their title changing to 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.
They were established on the 15th of October 1902, with the prefix "Royal" from the 2nd Service Company of the New Zealand Permanent Force.
Their badge featured a King Edward VII Cap badge with Cypher and the title "Royal NZ Engineers".
The unit was based in Wellington and Auckland (no South Island units).
Running parallel to this were established 6 companies of New Zealand Engineer Volunteers in 1903 (some dating back to the 1880's).
Both branches of the Engineers were responsible for maintaining Submarine Mining defenses of Auckland and Wellington harbours until the Navy took over the function in 1907.
On 17th of June 1907, the Volunteers were reformed into the New Zealand Engineer Volunteer Regiment.
No. 1 Company, NZEV - Canterbury Engineer Volunteers
No. 2 Company, NZEV - Dunedin Engineer Volunteers
No. 3 Company, NZEV - Auckland Engineer Volunteers
No. 4 Company, NZEV - Wellington Engineer Volunteers
In that same year (1907) the Royal New Zealand Engineers were absorbed into the Royal New Zealand Artillery.
The NZ Engineer Volunteer Regiment continued past 1911, and became a "Corps" after WW1 on 1st of June 1923 with their title changing to 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.
- Above: A rare gilt brass cap badge with George V Cypher (reigned 1910 to 1936) to the New Zealand Engineer Volunteers. This badge would have been worn up to 1923, in New Zealand, when the Engineer Volunteers then became a Corps.
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- Above Left: A darkened copper (?) Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. This pattern of badge was worn from 1911 to 1947. Die stamped, with two tangs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A darkened Copper (?) Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Semi-solid to back, with the maker details of "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne". Two short copper looped lugs to back. |
- Above: A darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above Left: A gilt fired brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Semi-solid to back, with the maker details of "Stokes & Sons, Melbourne". Two short copper looped lugs to back.
- Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Die stamped, with the maker plaque to "J R Gaunt London". Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. |
- Above Left: A darkened brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Maker marked to back, upper center to "M & K, W" or Mayer & Kean, Wellington. Two thick type copper wire lugs to back.
- Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Maker marked to back, upper center to "M & K, W" or Mayer & Kean, Wellington. Two thick type copper wire lugs to back. |
- Above Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Rounded copper looped lugs with feet to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Little detail to back of badge, with two short copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Note the small "NZE" to center and the large "Star" to base. Brass wire looped lugs to back.
- Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Note the different crown. This badge has two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Two pressed type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A silver (not marked) sweethearts badge in the shape of a New Zealand Engineers Cap badge. Brooch fitting to back, which is in a North/South configuration. Though missing the pin. No maker mark. |
- Above Left: A sand cast Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers. This is slightly smaller than a standard size Cap badge, and has two copper lugs cast into the back. It also has the shape of a Gaunt plaque to back base.
- Above Right: 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. |
New Zealand Engineer Tunnelers Company WW1.
The New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company formed in September 1915 on the Western Front. It disbanded in April 1919.
Many Kiwi's served with it or were attached to other Commonwealth Tunneling companies during WW1.
There is much debate as to why they have a larger badge, as it was not sanctioned, but there are pictures of it being worn.
The Tunnelers Cap badge is approximately 48mm high by 30mm wide.
The standard NZE Cap badge is 40mm high by 24mm wide.
(Measurements taken from two Gaunt plaqued examples).
Many Kiwi's served with it or were attached to other Commonwealth Tunneling companies during WW1.
There is much debate as to why they have a larger badge, as it was not sanctioned, but there are pictures of it being worn.
The Tunnelers Cap badge is approximately 48mm high by 30mm wide.
The standard NZE Cap badge is 40mm high by 24mm wide.
(Measurements taken from two Gaunt plaqued examples).
- Above: A rather scarce gilt fired brass Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Solid to back (which is rough), with two tangs. No maker mark.
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- Above Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Die stamped, it has been polished and then coated in lacquer, which has browned with age. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark. Probably J R Gaunt.
- Above Right: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back, with maker plaque to "J R Gaunt London". |
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Long brass slider to back with the maker impressed mark of "Tiptaft Bham" stamped on it.
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- Above: Another example of a Gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Long brass slider to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A pair of very scarce Officers Collars to the New Zealand Engineers Tunnelers Company. Estimated at maybe 40 to 50 Officer to the unit, these are rarely seen. Inga Wahi Katoa (meaning "Everywhere" - Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A pair of New Zealand Engineer Tunnelers Company shoulder titles. The "E" is brazed to the top of the "New Zealand" title. Both titles have two copper looped lugs to back and the maker stamp of "J R Gaunt London".
There are no lugs to the back of the "E"'s. - Opposite: A similar pair of shoulder titles to the New Zealand Engineer Tunnelers Company (Ian Hamilton Collection). |
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- Above: A pair of darkened New Zealand Engineer Tunnelers Company shoulder titles. These have separate "E"and "New Zealand" titles. Both titles have two copper looped lugs to back but are not maker marked.
There are hex type lugs to the back of the "E"'s. - Opposite: A superb French made silk card sent by 28015 Herbert (Jack) John Jelley to his wife (Maude) at some stage in late 1916, early 1917. Jack was a Bricklayer, who joined the New Zealand Engineers from England, via the Hornchurch Depo. He spent 1 year and 198 days overseas, in France. Sadly Jack was gassed on the 23rd of June 1917 while part of No. 1 Coy, NZ Field Engineers. He was evacuated out of France and returned to England, where he was struck off strength on the 6th of Dec 1917, as "No Longer Fit". The card depicts the New Zealand Engineers Cap badge, with a "E" over "NEW ZEALAND" shoulder title at base. To back, Jack has written "Love to all Jack, my dear Maude, you need not send me anything out here. I am alright, if I want anything I will let you know. Love to you and the children from your loving husband Jack. I am sending you a note with the card. XXXXXXX". Jack had two children at the time in England. Card is maker marked to back to "E. C., Boulogne-sur-Mer, Lillie". |
- Above: A rare thing, a page to the British issued New Zealand Silver War badge roll. It only contains a few hundred names, but as 28015 (Jack) Herbert John Jelley was demobilised in England, and deemed unfit due to being Gassed, he was issued SWB NZ166. The New Zealand issued SWB roll which would contain 1000's of names of the recipients who were issued their badges in New Zealand has been lost (so far - above page supplied by Ray Butler).
New Zealand Engineer Railway Battalion WW1.
The New Zealand Railway Battalions formed in Oct 1911, and were part of the NZ Engineers. They 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.
Care needs to taken when purchasing this badge, as sadly it has been faked considerably in recent years.
Care needs to taken when purchasing this badge, as sadly it has been faked considerably in recent years.
- Above: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap badge to the NZE Railway Battalion. Round copper looped lugs to back, with a maker plaque to back of the crown to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above Left & Right: Two die stamped Cap badges to the NZE Railway Battalion. Both are the same, with just one in a gilt finish, and the other a darkened. Both have rounded copper looped lugs to back and a impressed maker mark of "J R Gaunt London", vertical and to one side of the train to back.
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Engineers. Also worn by the New Zealand Field Artillery. Two copper looped lugs to the back on each. No maker mark.
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- Above: Other examples of the flaming Grenade Collar badge. Worn by other countries. Above left is in copper, while above right is in darkened brass. Both have two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A pair of white metal flaming grenade Collars, worn by the New Zealand Engineers. Purpose unknown, but I presume for band. Both have two copper looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A pair of darkened bronze Officers collar badges to the New Zealand Engineers. To badge of banner is the letters "N.Z.E" with two looped lugs to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above Left: A large single piece, darkened copper Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Two pressed type copper lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A large darkened bronze Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Separate bottom banner attached, with two copper looped lugs. No maker mark. |
- Above: A large pair of single piece gilt brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Engineers. A rough strike, lacking detail, they both have two pressed type copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above Left: A gilt brass, single piece Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Two copper wire loops to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A gilt fired, two piece Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Separate lower banner attached to the base of the Grenade. Two long copper loops to back, not maker mark. |
- Above: A pair of gilt fired brass, Collar badges to the New Zealand Engineers. Two loops to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: At some stage the New Zealand Engineers moved to wearing the British style of Royal Engineers Collar badge, with the "Ubique" in lower banner. This pair are the large gilt brass type, single piece, with two long loops to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A pair of fine bronze Officers shoulder titles to the New Zealand Engineers. Thin copper wire loops to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A pair of gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Engineers. Hex lugs to back, with the maker mark impressed to the back of the "Z" to "J R Gaunt London". I have also seen it impressed to bottom edge.
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- Above: A Australian made, "Stokes & Sons" marked shoulder title to the New Zealand Engineers. Two copper looped lugs to back. Note the stippling between the letters, which is a feature of this maker.
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- Above: A gilt brass shoulder title to the New Zealand Engineers. Hex lugs to back, but no maker mark. Probably Gaunt.
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- Above: A sand cast shoulder title to the New Zealand Engineers. Two small copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: When supplies were short, you had to make do with what you could lay your hands on. The above titles are actually, New Zealand Rifle or "N.Z.R" titles, which have had the "R" modified at the end to create a "E" for New Zealand Engineers.
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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.
- Above: A two piece, bi-metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gilt and enamel center, with frosted silver wreath. Two long looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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Above: A similar two piece, bi-metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gilt and enamel center, with frosted silver wreath. Two screw threads to back. No maker mark.
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Above: A similar two piece, bi-metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. This is Gilt fired, with an enamel center, with frosted silver wreath. Solid to back, with two long lugs. No maker mark.
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- Above: Probably the most commonly found of the bi-metal Cap badges to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gilt copper finish, with a enamel center, with white metal wreath. Two shorter copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark. Note there is some damage to enamel to base of wreath.
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- Above: A similar two piece, bi-metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gilt fired and enamel center, with frosted silver wreath. Two long looped lugs to back. Note the lettering to base banner is slightly larger. No maker mark.
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- Above: A two piece, anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gold tone and dark blue paint center, with a silver toned wreath. Two pins to back which would hold the badge on with clutches. No maker mark.
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- Above: A two piece, anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gold tone and dark blue paint center, with a silver toned wreath. Two long looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A two piece, anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Gold tone and dark blue paint center, with a silver toned wreath. Two long looped lugs to back. Seems to be a heavier strike of the badge in this metal. No maker mark.
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- Above: A pair of small gilt fired and matt silvered Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. One piece Gilt Brass backing with separate attached "Ubique" lower banner. One has long lugs to back, the other two pins, to be used with clutches. No maker mark.
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- Above: A pair of small gilt fired and polished silvered Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. One piece Gilt Brass backing with separate attached "Ubique" lower banner. Both have long looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above Left: A anodised aluminium gold tone Collar badge to the New Zealand Engineers. Single piece, with two long pins to back to be used with clutches. No maker mark.
- Above Right: Similar Collar badge in gilt brass to the New Zealand Engineers. Single piece, with two copper looped lugs. No maker mark. |
- Above: Post 1961, shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Engineers. Purple Navy on a Post Office 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".
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- Above: 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.
- Opposite: A rare cloth and embroidered thread Engine Trade sleeve badge. Light Khaki thread on a darkened khaki wool background (Ian Hamilton Collection). |
WW1 Base Records
- Opposite: A gilt brass, 2 piece Cap badge and single Collar to the WW1 New Zealand Base Records. A uniquely WW1 worn badge, this unit was established in June 1915, and were responsible for the mountain of paperwork generated by a greatly expanded Army. They were also responsible for demobilsation and War grave registration.
Both badges have two brass, flat type lugs to back. The Cap with the standard hex type, while the collar has rectangular, flat type lugs to back. The Collar is much much harder to get than the Cap badge, and there has been a few rumors that some collectors are prepared to remove the center off the Cap badge to make a Collar!!!
Both badges have two brass, flat type lugs to back. The Cap with the standard hex type, while the collar has rectangular, flat type lugs to back. The Collar is much much harder to get than the Cap badge, and there has been a few rumors that some collectors are prepared to remove the center off the Cap badge to make a Collar!!!
WW1 Army Interpreters
- Opposite: A single piece, gilt brass sleeve profficency badge for British Army/Commonwealth Interpreter badge to translate between English and Egyptian. Two strips of brass to back, one at top and one at base to create 4 tangs to hold the badge onto the uniform sleeve. Worn by New Zealanders during WW1 stationed in Egypt and the surrounding area (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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, one deployed to France, and the other 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, one deployed to France, and the other 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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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. |
- Above: A classic image taken of the time during WW1. Bill Massey is behind the Machine Gun (at the time, Prime Minister of New Zealand), while Sir Joseph Ward is feeding in the belt to the gun (he was deputy leader throughout WW1, with New Zealand having a coalition Government). A sprinkling of Staff Officers seated to front, with red bands to their caps and tabs to their collars. To back are members of the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Many wear the crossed gun Cap badge with NZ below to their Lemon Squeezers.
- Above: A scarce 3 tanged/bladed WW1 New Zealand Machine Gun Corps Officers Bronze Cap badge. Sadly not maker marked, but has a interesting double tang to top, back of crown, more commonly found on Canadian Badges.
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- Above: 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 piece of trench art? A standard brass Machine Gun Corps Cap badge, with three copper looped lugs to back, but with the addition of a New Zealand Rifles (NZR) Infantry shoulder title attached by two bolts to base.
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- Above: A collar size 9ct Gold sweethearts badge to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. Brooch fitting to back and a hallmark stamp of "9ct".
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- Above: A pair of WW1 shoulder titles to the New Zealand Machine Gun (N.Z.M.G). Two hex type brass lugs to back to each, and a maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back of "Z".
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- Above: A similar pair of WW1 shoulder titles to the New Zealand Machine Gun (N.Z.M.G) with their backing plates and pins (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A pair of WW1 shoulder titles to the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps (N.Z.M.G.C). Two hex type brass lugs to back to each, and a maker marked to "J R Gaunt, London" to back of "Z" on one and "M" on the other.
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- Above: Machine Gun (MG) in cast brass, within Fern leaves. Two Copper looped lugs to back cast or integrated into the back.
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- Above and Opposite: Cast brass sleeve qualification badges for a New Zealand Machine Gun Corps. 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.
- Above Left: Light Machine Gun (LMG) in cast brass, within Fern leaves. Two Copper looped lugs to back.
- Above 2nd from Left: A Canterbury Battalion Machine Gun sleeve badge. Cast brass, within Fern leaves and a kings crown. This badge has no lugs, they have been clipped off. The date 1864 is the founding of the Canterbury Regiment in New Zealand.
- Above 2nd from Right: Lewis Gun (LG) in cast brass, within Fern leaves. Two Copper looped lugs to back.
- Above Right: Hotchkiss Gun in cast brass, within Fern leaves (Ian Hamilton Collection).
- Above Left: Light Machine Gun (LMG) in cast brass, within Fern leaves. Two Copper looped lugs to back.
- Above 2nd from Left: A Canterbury Battalion Machine Gun sleeve badge. Cast brass, within Fern leaves and a kings crown. This badge has no lugs, they have been clipped off. The date 1864 is the founding of the Canterbury Regiment in New Zealand.
- Above 2nd from Right: Lewis Gun (LG) in cast brass, within Fern leaves. Two Copper looped lugs to back.
- Above Right: Hotchkiss Gun in cast brass, within Fern leaves (Ian Hamilton Collection).
- Above: A British cloth sleeve trade badge for the "Lewis Gun" (LG) worn by Kiwi gunners on their lower sleeve. Embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker to back, but someone has written on the back in pen the date "12-10-33". 62mm by 50mm.
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- Above: A similar cloth sleeve trade badge for the "Lewis Gun" (LG). Embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A British sleeve trade badge for the "Machine Gun" (MG), again, worn by Kiwi gunners on their lower sleeve. Two tone embroidered thread on a khaki wool background. No maker to back (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Left: A British sleeve trade badge for the "Lewis Gun" (LG) worn by Kiwi gunners on their lower sleeve. A gilt brass badge, one piece, with two short looped lugs to back. - Right: A British sleeve trade badge for the "Machine Gun" (MG), again, worn by Kiwi gunners on their lower sleeve. A gilt brass badge, two piece, with separate "MG", brazed onto Laurel leaf frame, with two short looped lugs to back. |
The following patches were permitted to be worn by the New Zealand Machine Gun Corps as per General Order 496 dated the 31st Jan 1918.
Like their Infantry counterparts, they were to be worn on the center back of the tunic, directly below the collar.
Like their Infantry counterparts, they were to be worn on the center back of the tunic, directly below the collar.
- Above: Headquarters New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Blue Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 1st Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Yellow Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 2nd Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Grey Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 3rd Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Green Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 4th Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Black Star on Red square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 4th Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - A variation, this patch is much larger than the others (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: 5th Coy New Zealand Machine Gun Corps - Red Star on Black square (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Opposite: New Zealand Machine Gun Squadron - Red over Black rectangle worn by Machine Gunners who were stationed with the New Zealand Mounted Rifles in the Middle East in WW1. Permited to be worn from the 15th of July 1917 as per General Order 359, and on the left side of the slouch hat, on the Puggaree (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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.
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.
- Above: A bronze, darkened, Officers Cap Badge to the New Zealand Cyclist Corps. It has three tangs or blades to back, with one at the top, behind the crown, and one either side, at base. Maker plaque behind crown, to "J R Gaunt London".
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap Badge to the New Zealand Cyclist Corps. Copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A non-matching gilt brass Collar badge pair to the New Zealand Cyclist Corps. Both Collars have the marked plaque of "J R Gaunt, London" to the back of the crown. The collar on the right, has the word "ARMY" faintly under the "NZ" on the lower banner, where Gaunt has modified the British dies to strike the New Zealand badge.
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- Above: A matching pair of none maker marked collar badge to the New Zealand Cyclist Corps. Two looped copper looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A variation in brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Cycle Corps. Thicker detail, with less definition between the spokes, and a solid crown. This is die stamped, with two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: Two gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Cycle Corps. Both are marked "J R Gaunt, London" to back, and have two hex type lugs.
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- Opposite: New Zealand General Order 495 allowed for the New Zealand Cycle Corps to wear a distinctive patch from the 31st of Jan 1918. A Red diamond within a White diamond. This was worn on either sleeve, 1 1/2" below the shoulder strap (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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.
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.
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- Opposite: A small Silver unit lapel badge to the Long Range Desert Group. Marked "Stg Sil" and "TMJ". It was made by Taranaki Manufacturing Jewelers of Stratford. Size 19mm diameter.
- Above: 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. Size 34mm diameter. |
- Above: Another Cap badge in Gilt brass to the Long Range Desert Group. Much better detail, with the finish now toned (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Opposite: A extremely rare New Zealand Long Range Patrol Association badge. 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.
In Feb 2019, one of these came up for sale on a New Zealand Auction site, and sold for $17, 180 NZD or just under 10,000 euros.
An amazing sum for a piece of Silver no larger than 35mm in height!
In Feb 2019, one of these came up for sale on a New Zealand Auction site, and sold for $17, 180 NZD or just under 10,000 euros.
An amazing sum for a piece of Silver no larger than 35mm in height!
- Opposite: A fake Long Range Desert Group Cap badge. Probably around the 1980's, its in brass, which has toned with 40 odd years of age. This is by no means a definitive list of what to look for, but its a start. The likelihood of finding a badge from a Vet, with 100% provenance is slim now-a-days, and with price between $1000 to $1600+ NZD for a badge, the fakers are getting better.
1. Note the stippling to outer border wreath, originals are smooth.
2. This is currently the biggest give-a-way. On originals, the tail of the Scorpion does NOT touch its 3rd leg.
3. On this fake, there seems to be two ridges on the inner and outer edge. Mine has a single ridge on the inner edge.
4. On originals, the letters are fretted out for the inside of the top of the "R", "D" and inside of the "G", plus they are joined at the lower base between each other. Note I have recently seen a badge which sold with the tail touching the foot, but with the letters fretted out possibly by hand. It did have a smooth border, with the inner ridge. Fakers getting better?
1. Note the stippling to outer border wreath, originals are smooth.
2. This is currently the biggest give-a-way. On originals, the tail of the Scorpion does NOT touch its 3rd leg.
3. On this fake, there seems to be two ridges on the inner and outer edge. Mine has a single ridge on the inner edge.
4. On originals, the letters are fretted out for the inside of the top of the "R", "D" and inside of the "G", plus they are joined at the lower base between each other. Note I have recently seen a badge which sold with the tail touching the foot, but with the letters fretted out possibly by hand. It did have a smooth border, with the inner ridge. Fakers getting better?
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.
From 1911, the New Zealand Army Medical Corps formed, with its Territorial counterpart, the New Zealand Medical Corps.
Its badge has had a long life, but there are numerous variations in style of crown, materials used, and the wording to the lower banner of the badge.
- Opposite: A pre 1911 shoulder title to the New Zealand Amy Medical Department (N.Z.A.M.D). This was part of the Permanent Force of the New Zealand Army.
From 1911, the New Zealand Army Medical Corps formed, with its Territorial counterpart, the New Zealand Medical Corps.
Its badge has had a long life, but there are numerous variations in style of crown, materials used, and the wording to the lower banner of the badge.
- Opposite: A pre 1911 shoulder title to the New Zealand Amy Medical Department (N.Z.A.M.D). This was part of the Permanent Force of the New Zealand Army.
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Worn from 1911, by the permanent Force of the New Zealand Army. These badges are scarce , as the Corps must have been very small. Hex type brass lugs to back.
Opposite: A pair of gilt brass New Zealand Army Medical Corps Collar badges. Note one has a void crown. Both have two hex type brass lugs to back (Ian Hamilton Collection). |
- Above: A matching pair of gilt brass collar badges to the New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Note the lower banner and just the letters "N.Z.A.M.C" opposed to the full wording to the Cap badge opposite. Two brass looped lugs to the back of each.
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The wording to the badges falls broadly 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 words N.Z Medical Corps in the lower banner was worn.
- During WW1 - a badge with the words New Zealand Medical Corps in lower banner was worn.
- In 1947, the Territorial and Permanent Force Medical units combined to form the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps.
- 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 words N.Z Medical Corps in the lower banner was worn.
- During WW1 - a badge with the words New Zealand Medical Corps in lower banner was worn.
- In 1947, the Territorial and Permanent Force Medical units combined to form the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps.
- Above: A gilt fired brass and Silver (not marked) Officers Cap badge to the Territorial "N.Z.M.C." (New Zealand Medical Corps). Blade or tangs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A interesting matching Cap and Collar badge in darkened bronze to a Officer in the Territorial "N.Z.M.C." Note these are two piece, with a separate lower banner held on by wires. No maker mark. Copper looped lugs to the back of each.
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Stokes & Sons of Melbourne made a number of badges for the New Zealand Army around the period of WW1. Above are two Cap badges to the N.Z.M.C.
- Left: A gilt brass, solid backed Cap badge to the N.Z.M.C. Two copper round looped lugs to back and the maker mark, stamped into the lower back if the banner to "Stokes & Sons, Melb". - Right: A darkened bronze, solid backed Cap badge to the N.Z.M.C. Two copper round looped lugs to back and the maker mark, stamped into the lower back if the banner to "Stokes & Sons, Melb". |
- Above Top: Gilt brass collar badges to the Territorial "N.Z..M.C." Both have two copper round looped lugs to back, and the maker mark of "Stokes & Sons, Melb". One has its stamped into back, while the other has it in raised letters. Both are solid backed.
- Above Bottom: Same as above, but in a darkened bronze finish. Solid backed and with the maker mark of "Stokes & Sons, Melb". They too, come in stamped or raised letters. |
- Above: A rare NZ made WW1 era peaked cap, with a N.Z.M.C Cap badge to front. The badge is the solid backed type, in gilt brass, made by "Stokes & Sons, Melb".
- Above: Same hat, showing the top, which is reinforced to edge, inside, with a metal ring, to hold its shape.
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- Above: Same hat, showing the small Post 1911 patt New Zealand Forces buttons to side, securing the chin-strap.
- Above: Showing the inside of the hat with lining and leather sweat band. Note the duel riveted vent holes to side.
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- Above: Time and moth have been hard on this hat. Just a rear view
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- Above: A close-up of the make mark, stamped to the inside of the liner indicating a size "7" and made by the Kaiapoi Woolen M.F.G. Co Ltd. Sadly the details of the owner were not filled out.
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- Above: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap and Collar badge to the N.Z.M.C.
A slightly elongated style of badge, with both having two hex type brass lugs to back. |
- Above: Another variation in style of the N.Z.M.C Cap badge. The badge on the left, is solid to back and in darkened copper, while the right is in die stamped brass. Both have thin wire type lugs to back. Note the crown, which is in a different style.
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- Opposite Left: A solid backed Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. This is in gilt version, which has been brooched to back. No maker mark.
- Opposite Right & Above: A solid backed Collar badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Two copper looped lugs to back, and a inscription has been engraved "From George to Ena". |
From 1915 to 1923, badges were also worn with "N.Z. Medical Corps" to lower banner.
- Above Left: A darkened brass Cap badge, with slider to the N.Z. Medical Corps. No maker mark. - Above Right: Same again, a darkened brass Cap badge, with slider to the N.Z. Medical Corps. No maker mark. Just light difference in crown and wreath. |
- A die stamped gilt brass Cap and Collar badge to the N.Z. Medical Corps. Both have two thin wire loops to back. Not matching, as they have different crowns and wreaths. No maker mark.
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During WW1 and beyond, the badge with the title "New Zealand Medical Corps" was worn.
- Above Left: A semi-solid gilt brass Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Maker plaque to the back of the crown to "J R Gaunt, London". Two tangs to back. - Above Right: A semi-solid darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Maker plaque to the back of the crown to "J R Gaunt, London". Two tangs to back. |
- Above Left: A semi-solid darkened brass Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Maker impressed to to back to "J R Gaunt, London". Two tangs to back.
- Above Right: A semi-solid darkened bronze Officers Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. No maker and two tangs to back. |
- Above Left: A solid backed, gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps, with the maker mark impressed in a curve to back to "J R Gaunt London". Two D shaped looped copper lugs.
- Above Right: A scarce single piece, Silver with gilt finish Collar badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Maker mark to top back to "J R Gaunt London", which is impressed. Two D shaped copper looped lugs to back. |
- Above: A pair of darkened bronze collar badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Solid to back, with both having a maker mark impressed to "J R Gaunt London". One maker mark is straight, while the other is in a curved pattern. Both have two copper looped D shaped lugs.
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- Above Left: A die stamped, gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Not maker marked and with two hex type brass lugs to back. Probably New Zealand made.
- Above Right: A darkened Copper Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. This is solid to back, with two long copper looped lugs. No maker mark. |
- Above: A matching par of darkened Collar badges to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Solid to back, but with no maker mark. They have thick copper wire lugs to back, similar to what is found on Stokes & Sons of Melbourne made badges.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Two D shaped looped lugs to back and a maker plaque, behind crown to "J R Gaunt, London".
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- Above: A matching pair of gilt brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Medical Corps. These both have D shaped copper looped lugs to back and a maker plaque, at base back to "J R Gaunt, London".
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- Above Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Two looped lugs to back, but no maker.
- Above Right: A semi-solid Copper Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Similar design to the gilt badge, but again no maker mark and two looped lugs to back. |
- Above Left: Variations in design. A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Narrower crown, with two copper looped lugs. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A solid crowned gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. Two copper looped lugs and no maker mark. |
- Above: Another one of these WW1 New Zealand made NZ Medical Corps Cap badges. This has twisted copper wire lugs to back, which are also found on the NZMP Cap Badge and a number of other badges of the era.
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- Above Top Left & Bottom Row: A slightly small Collar badge to the New Zealand Medical Corps. All three are slightly different as they have various parts voided, but no two are the same. Short copper looped lugs to back and no maker mark.
- Above Top Right: A sand cast Collar badge to the NZ Medical Corps. Two ribbon like lugs are cast into the back of the badge. No maker mark. - Opposite: A matching pair of small type Collar badge with the banner "New Zealand Medical Corps". Voided crowns with copper looped lugs to back (Ian Hamilton Collection". |
- Above: A pair of matching gilt brass shoulder titles to the New Zealand Medal Corps. Impressed to back to "J R Gaunt, London". Short hex type brass lugs to back.
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- Above: A pair of 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.
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- Above: A group shot of 4 New Zealand Medical Corps chaps taken in 1915. To back is the note in pen "Dear Millie, Have not received that promised photo of yours yet. This was taken in Cairo (Egypt) by gas light the other night. We are still in the land of sand script sorrow. Love from Bill." It was to a Miss M Kirkman, P.O, Napier, N.Z.
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- Above: Two images of 3/2611 Pte. William Henry Barker, who started his service as part of the 20th Reinforcements, New Zealand Medical Corps. In the photo on the left, he wears a peaked cloth cap with a NZMC Cap badge, and matching collars to his tunic (what type of banner, I cannot see). On his shoulder boards are the number "20" for 20th Reinforcements, and "N.Z.M.C" in brass. He also has a Medical trade patch, in the form of a "Geneva Cross" to his upper left sleeve. The right image is similar, but without the cap.
- Opposite: A WW1 era Stirling Silver bar broach commemorating the 3rd New Zealand Field Ambulance which served in France and the western front. To the left is the New Zealand Division Symbol, center a New Zealand Medical Corps Cap badge, and right a Red Cross Symbol. On the bar of the brooch are the words "No 3. N.Z. F Amb".
From the Auckland Star - 15th Feb 1918 - Page 3
"Mr. J. F. Bailey, of Auckland, has received a very striking tribute of the esteem and liking with which his brother Lee, Corporal Joseph Bailey, of the New Zealand Medical Corps, who was killed in the Somme Battle, was regarded. The unit of which Corpl. Bailey was a member has sent a gold brooch, very tastefully designed, bearing a small reproduction of the Medical Corps regimental badge, flanked by a red cross and a fern leaf. In an accompanying letter Lieut.-Colonel Hardie Neil says: "The brooch is a token of the affection and esteem with which Corporal Bailey was regarded. We have not forgotten him and the New Zealand Divisional Orchestra, which undoubtedly owes its origin to him... I personally cannot help regretting his death still, for he was responsible for some of our happiest hours, and was very loyal and helpful." Corporal Bailey enlisted with the Rifle Brigade, to which he was attached in the Medical Corps."
- 3/1752 Lance Corporal Joseph Bailey was Killed in Action on the 16th of September 1916 at age 44. His occupation prior to WW1 was a Musician. He was assigned to the 3rd New Zealand Field Ambulance on the 15th of March 1916, but there is no mention of him ever being with the New Zealand Rifle Brigade on his service record. Joseph is buried at Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, Longueval, the Somme, France.
- 3/1307 Lieutenant James Hardie Neil. A long service Officer, who saw action in the Boer War, WW1 and WW2. He commanded 3rd New Zealand Field Ambulance during WW1.
From the Auckland Star - 15th Feb 1918 - Page 3
"Mr. J. F. Bailey, of Auckland, has received a very striking tribute of the esteem and liking with which his brother Lee, Corporal Joseph Bailey, of the New Zealand Medical Corps, who was killed in the Somme Battle, was regarded. The unit of which Corpl. Bailey was a member has sent a gold brooch, very tastefully designed, bearing a small reproduction of the Medical Corps regimental badge, flanked by a red cross and a fern leaf. In an accompanying letter Lieut.-Colonel Hardie Neil says: "The brooch is a token of the affection and esteem with which Corporal Bailey was regarded. We have not forgotten him and the New Zealand Divisional Orchestra, which undoubtedly owes its origin to him... I personally cannot help regretting his death still, for he was responsible for some of our happiest hours, and was very loyal and helpful." Corporal Bailey enlisted with the Rifle Brigade, to which he was attached in the Medical Corps."
- 3/1752 Lance Corporal Joseph Bailey was Killed in Action on the 16th of September 1916 at age 44. His occupation prior to WW1 was a Musician. He was assigned to the 3rd New Zealand Field Ambulance on the 15th of March 1916, but there is no mention of him ever being with the New Zealand Rifle Brigade on his service record. Joseph is buried at Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, Longueval, the Somme, France.
- 3/1307 Lieutenant James Hardie Neil. A long service Officer, who saw action in the Boer War, WW1 and WW2. He commanded 3rd New Zealand Field Ambulance during WW1.
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- Opposite: Two New Zealand Soldiers who are Hospital "out-patients", and therefore wearing their hospital blues. This was to be worn while a soldier was attending a hospital or while convalescing.
The uniform consisted of a blue-serge tunic and trousers, with the tunic having white lapels. A white shirt was to be worn with a red tie. I believe they are also wearing a blue band on their left upper arms. The soldier on the left is wearing a 12th (Nelson) Infantry Regiment Cap badge, while the chap on the right, standing, is wearing a NZ Rifle Brigade Collar as a Cap. Sadly not named to back, but taken by "The Fancy Dress Studio, 37 Oxford Street. W". In 1918, if a Soldier was permitted to wear his uniform, two blue stars (see above), which were to be sewn to his tunic collar. This order came in in 1918 and then withdrawn in June 1919. The above star is approximately 40mm in diameter with a pale cotton backing. I have yet to see a photo of these being worn. |
In 1947, the New Zealand Medical Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" to their title. This then meant a change to their badges.
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- Opposite and Above: A matching Silver and gilt brass set (all marked "S" to back of crown for "Silver" ) to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps with Kings Crown. The cap has long silvered lugs to back, while both Collars have D shaped silvered lugs. Otherwise not maker marked.
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- Above: A gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps with Kings Crown. This a relatively common badge, and it seems to have been issued in large numbers. This badge has two pressed type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A similar gilt brass, other ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps with Kings Crown. This badge has two thick copper wire lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Opposite: A pair of gilt brass, other ranks Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps, with Kings Crown.
These Collars are super rare, and were not issued in great numbers. They are different from the Cap badge, not only in size (smaller), but also as they only have one void area to the center above the lower banner, whereas the Cap badge has three.
This comes in handy when spotting them for sale, as often they are miss-described as Cap badges.
Two thick copper wire lugs to the back of each, with no maker mark.
These Collars are super rare, and were not issued in great numbers. They are different from the Cap badge, not only in size (smaller), but also as they only have one void area to the center above the lower banner, whereas the Cap badge has three.
This comes in handy when spotting them for sale, as often they are miss-described as Cap badges.
Two thick copper wire lugs to the back of each, with no maker mark.
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- Opposite and Above: A matching set of Cap and Collars badges in gilt fired brass and silver (not marked) to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps with Queens Crown. The Cap has long silvered lugs to back and is impressed to "J R Gaunt London", while both Collars have D shaped silvered lugs, but are not maker marked.
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- Opposite: 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: A anodised aluminium staybrite set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. These are single piece, two tone, with pins and clutches to back.
The Cap is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, B'ham". Note the collars are opposing, with the serpents head facing inwards.
The Cap is maker marked to "J R Gaunt, B'ham". Note the collars are opposing, with the serpents head facing inwards.
- Above: A multi-piece gilt and frosted silver Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Medical Corps. A modern strike of the badge, with slightly enlarged Queens crown. Two long looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: Again, a modern strike , single piece, darkened metal Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. The Cap has screw posts and nuts to back, while both Collars have pins to be used with clutches. Note the opposing heads of the serpents to center. No maker mark.
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- 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
- Above Left: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with brass backing, 25mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "Firmin London".
- Above Right:A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with brass backing, 19mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "London Badge & Button". |
- Above Left: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with brass backing, 17mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "Firmin London".
- Above Center: A anodised aluminium, in gilt tone, with brass backing, 16mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "Gaunt London". - Above Left: A anodised aluminium, in silver tone, with brass backing, 16mm button to the "Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps". Marker mark to back to "Gaunt London". |
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- Above Left & Right: A cloth Stretcher Bearer (SB) worn by personnel tasked with retrieving wounded on the battlefield. At the beginning of WW1 this role was usually given to Regimental Band members, but over time it became a specialised role, with members needing basic medical training and the fitness required to rescue soldiers from truly inhospitable conditions. This according to references is probably a WW2 era band, as it has a tapered end which fits into a smaller buckle. Also the letter are printed on in red paint. No other maker marks.
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- Above Left & Right: A Red Cross armband worn by British and other Commonwealth nations, including New Zealand. This is a British Armband, as it came with a set of WW2 medals to a chap who was also a Church Cadet. He saw service in North Africa, France and Germany (I have his medals) as part of the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC). White cotton material, with a dark red Cross, sewn separately on to front. 6 poppers to back, to allow for adjustment. It is stamped "Army Medical Service" in ink to front. Some references also say that this pattern of band was worn in WW1.
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- Above Left & Right: A Red Cross armband worn by British and other Commonwealth nations, including New Zealand. This is a two piece band, with a separate red cross sewn to front. Three buttons to back to attach and unattach the band. There are no marking to inside or out.
Medical Corps Trade Patch
The following are a selection of Medical Corps Cloth Trade patches. The range from pre WW1 to now. Most are British or Commonwealth patches worn by Medical Corps personnel, including New Zealand, but there are a few from different countries too.
- Above: A early New Zealand Volunteer Medical patch, with red thread cross, on a white background with gold bullion thread to outer boarder on a dark material background. Roughly 42mm in diameter.
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- Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a dark background. Roughly 52mm in diameter.
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- Above: A medical patch with red felt cross, on a white background, with yellow felt to outer boarder on a dark background. Roughly 49mm in diameter.
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- Above: A medical patch with red felt cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a dark background. Possibly the border has been repaired, as its pukered the patch. Roughly 52mm in diameter.
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- Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a khaki wool background. Roughly 51mm in diameter.
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- Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a khaki wool background. Roughly 56mm in diameter.
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- Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a pale background. Roughly 51mm in diameter.
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- Above: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a large dark blue background. Royal Navy or Royal NZ Navy. Roughly 47mm in diameter.
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- Above Center: A medical patch with red thread cross, on a white background, with yellow thread to outer boarder on a khaki wool background. Roughly 47mm in diameter. This patch is faded, but thankfully sewn roughly on a piece of cloth, which has also recored the soldiers details who wore it, a Pte. H Martin, 2002621.
- Opposite: A sleeve patch to the Australian Army Medical Women's Service (A.A.M.W.S) , with red thread cross, on a white border, with a khaki wool background. Roughly 44mm x 44mm in size.
- Opposite: A sleeve patch to the Australian Army Medical Women's Service (A.A.M.W.S) , with red thread cross, on a white border, with a khaki wool background. Roughly 44mm x 44mm in size.
- Opposite: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Medical Corps. Khaki/Cherry Red/Khaki. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7 1/4".
- Opposite: A older style, post 1961 cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. Gold embroidered letters on a Ruby 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 (NZANS).
- Above: A early WW1 Silver and enamel badge to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service (N.Z.A.N.S.). Solid and brooched to back, with a marker mark at back base to "Stg. Silver" and "C.M.Bay". A short length of the original safety chain is still attached at base. Note the opaque red enamel to center.
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- Above: A similar, but later badge to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service, Again, solid and a brooch fitting to back, with maker marked to "Stg. Silver" and "C.M.Bay". A flatter, clearer, red enamel to center.
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C M Bay was a WW1 manufacturer, and some of these early badges have the "registration number" of the nurse engraved to the back of the crown.
The registration number differs to the nurses service number, for example 22/327 is the service number of Nurse Elizabeth Fanny Stanton, who qualified in 1911, but attested on the 18th of Jan 1916 to the NZ Army Nurses Service. She was assigned the registration number of 1062, as Elizabeth was the 1062th person to join the Service.
Her badge may have had "1062" engraved to back, but this is a exception, as normally they are blank, with only a handful of examples seeming to have the owners registration number to back.
The registration number differs to the nurses service number, for example 22/327 is the service number of Nurse Elizabeth Fanny Stanton, who qualified in 1911, but attested on the 18th of Jan 1916 to the NZ Army Nurses Service. She was assigned the registration number of 1062, as Elizabeth was the 1062th person to join the Service.
Her badge may have had "1062" engraved to back, but this is a exception, as normally they are blank, with only a handful of examples seeming to have the owners registration number to back.
- Above: A later kings crown badge to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service. Solid to back and a brooch fitting, but with different "sprung"pin and hook. Marked to "M & K Ld" and "Silver". Note the ribbing to background of red center enamel. Safety chain is attached to the brooch pin.
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- Above: A unknown purpose of solid gilt brass badge to the New Zealand Army Nursing Service. Looks to have the same construction as the M & K Ld or Mayer and Kean Limited made example to the left, but a darker colour of red and dark blue enamel, and note some red to crown. Maybe a association badge. Same size, with brooch fitting to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A unknown badge clearly to the New Zealand medical services, with a "NZ" to base and the fern leaves wreath. But purpose unknown. It is semi-solid to back with a brooch fitting. Apparently these originated in the UK, and are maybe a sample badge made by one of the manufacturers there.
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- Above: A selection Bone or Ivory crafted Onwards badges, often associated and worn by Nurses as a unofficial badge (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Above: A group photo of NZ Army Nursing Service staff at Trentham Military Camp in New Zealand around 1917. Note they wear their NZANS badges to the front of their Cape, though it seems which side of the cap could vary. Note that you can also just make out the safety pin and chain deployed below the badge to the front of their uniform.
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Other early makers:
- A collector has showed me a NZANS badge marked "Kramer - Cairo" and "Stirling". It has a pin to back similar to the WW1 SWB (Silver War/Wound Badge). There was a L Kramer, who was a silversmith/jeweler at the beginning of the 1900's in Cairo, Egypt, making Government awards and selling to the general public.
- Another New Zealand maker encountered is "Young & Co, Auckland".
In 1953 the service was reorganised into the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps (R.N.Z.N.C.).
- A collector has showed me a NZANS badge marked "Kramer - Cairo" and "Stirling". It has a pin to back similar to the WW1 SWB (Silver War/Wound Badge). There was a L Kramer, who was a silversmith/jeweler at the beginning of the 1900's in Cairo, Egypt, making Government awards and selling to the general public.
- Another New Zealand maker encountered is "Young & Co, Auckland".
In 1953 the service was reorganised into the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps (R.N.Z.N.C.).
- Above: A brooch badge to the Royal NZ Nursing Corps (R.N.Z.N.C.) in silver and enamel, with Queens Crown. Maker marked to back to "M & K Ld" and "Silver".
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- Above: Another brooch badge to the Royal NZ Nursing Corps (R.N.Z.N.C.) in silver and enamel, with Queens Crown. Maker marked to back to ""Stg Silv"".
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- Above: A modern, silver washed metal and enamel brooched badge with safety chain and pin attached to the R.N.Z.N.C. No maker mark.
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- Opposite & Above: A gilt brass and Silver (not marked) Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. The Cap badge has two short thread bolts to back, while the collars have short looped lugs. All are solid to back, with no maker mark. All have separate bottom banners.
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Above: A gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Die stamped, it has two thick copper looped lugs to back. Separate white metal banner, which has been riveted on to back. No maker mark.
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Above: A white metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Die stamped, it has two thick copper looped lugs to back. Separate white metal banner, which has been riveted on to back. No maker mark.
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Above: A single piece, two tone, anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Two aluminium looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Opposite: A modern, gilt & chromed metal Cap to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Flat back, it has two thread bolts to back and nuts. No maker mark.
- Above: A pair of darkened Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Both are two piece, with separate banner. Two copper looped lugs to back, with no maker mark. |
- Above: A Officers bullion thread and cloth Beret badge to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps.
No maker label to back. |
- Above: A rank disk worn on the right breast, on medical whites. Worn by NCO's in the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. The above is a Corporals rank, with a safety pin glued (repaired) to back. Other ranks appear to be Staff Sargent, Sargent and Lance Corporal.
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- Above: A pair of post 1961 cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps. Grebe embroidered letters on a Post Office 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.
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.
- Above: 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.
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Above are variations in the Other Ranks Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.
- Above 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. - Above 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. |
- Above: 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.
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- 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. |
- Above are buttons to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. They appear the same as the British worn pattern of button.
- Above Left: A 25.5mm gilt anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "Gaunt London" to back. - Above Center: A 19mm gilt anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "Gaunt London" to back. - Above Right: A 17mm gilt anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "Firmin London" to back. |
Silver tone, which could be dulling with age.
- Above Left: A 25.5mm silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "Gaunt London" to back. - Above Center: A 17mm silver tone anodised aluminium fixed shank button to the RNZEME. Maker marked to "Firmin London" to back. - Opposite: Post 1961, cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Both are Indian Yellow letters on a Purple Navy background. Note the variation in letter sizing due to manufacturer variation. |
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- Above: A unissued stable belt to the Royal New Zealand Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Chromed metal fittings, with a belt center with the Corps Cap badge and "R.N.Z.E.M.E" to banner. The Corps motto is also to center with "Arte et Marte" from the Latin meaning "By Skill and by Fighting". All is mounted on the Corps' colours.
- Above: No maker markings to the metal fittings to the belt, but a label is sewn in, with the details "Hobson & Sons (London) Ltd...... Large". In pen is written "30 x 40"".
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- Above: The belt is in its orginal plastic packet, with the above label attached. Note the manufacture date of 4th of May 1997 and size 40".
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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.
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- Opposite & Above: 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 in a north/south configuration. The gilt fired brass center to each is held on by brass wires bent through the silver back. Raised lettered maker mark of "Mayer & Kean Ltd, NZ".
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- Left & 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 in a north/south configuration, with a raised letter maker mark of "Mayer & Kean Ltd, NZ".
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- Above Right: A two piece, anodised aluminium staybrite Cap badge to to the New Zealand Army Education Corps. No maker mark, and two long pins to back which easily break off. I have yet to see any Collar badges to match this Cap, but apparently they do exist.
In November 1963, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal".
In November 1963, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal".
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- Opposite & Above: 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 on each.
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- Above: A two piece anodised aluminium staybrite Cap to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps. Two pins to back, and the maker mark of "Firmin London".
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- Above: 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."
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- Above: A two piece anodised aluminium staybrite Cap to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps. Two aluminium lugs to back, and the maker mark of "Firmin London".
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- Opposite: Post 1961, supposedly White (though it appears Light Blue) embroidered letter on Cambridge Blue background cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Army Education Corps.
Note the lower title is the more modern version, with a embroidered border or edge.
Note the lower title is the more modern version, with a embroidered border or edge.
- 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 silver plated, die stamped Cap and Collar bade pair of the British version (possible worn by the New Zealand Army Legal Service). Note the British version has the words in the outer wreath "Justtia In Armis", with "Army Legal Corps" to lower banner.
The Cap badge's silver plating as worn off, but still present to the collars. Note Lions to top of collars oppose each other.
- Opposite: A silver plated, die stamped Cap and Collar bade pair of the British version (possible worn by the New Zealand Army Legal Service). Note the British version has the words in the outer wreath "Justtia In Armis", with "Army Legal Corps" to lower banner.
The Cap badge's silver plating as worn off, but still present to the collars. Note Lions to top of collars oppose each other.
- Above: A die stamped, silver plated, Cap badge and pair of semi-solid Collar badges to the New Zealand Army Legal Service. Very similar to the British version, but note the words in the outer wreath "Army Legal Services", and "Justtia In Armis" to lower banner. Note the collars don't appear to come with opposing lions to top.
- Opposite Top and Sides: A multi-piece Cap and Collar set to the New Zealand Army Legal Service. Possible Silver (though not marked) or Silver |
(Continued)
plate, with separate enamel disc to back. All have lugs, with the Cap Badge being extra long. No maker mark. - Above Bottom: A multi piece, silver plated Collar Badge to the New Zealand Army Legal Service. Pin type lugs to back, no maker mark. |
- Opposite: A unauthorised (and NOT worn) White letter on maroon coloured background shoulder title to the New Zealand Army Legal Service.
New Zealand Forces Motor Corps
The NZ Army Reserve of Officers was formed in April 1913. It was re-designated the New Zealand Forces Motor Services Corps in May 1915.
During WW1 it seems to have taken on a NZ Defense roll, and have two sections
- A Motor Boat Section - a number of references were made in News Papers of the time, including 23rd of July 1915 which stated in the Auckland Star, that the Auckland Motor-boat Section of the New Zealand Forces Motor Service Corps had twenty motor-boats in the motor-boat section of the Motor Service Corps at the time. References are also made on the Torpedo Bay Naval Museum website, which features a picture of Charles Henry Tarr Palmer, who was a member of the Auckland Motor Boat Section of the NZ Forces Motor Service Corps. Early on in WW1 he organised patrols of the Hauraki Gulf by the force. He is pictured on the site wearing the below insignia. He went on to serve with the British Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve and saw action in the North Sea.
- A Motor-Car Section - details of its purpose are sketchy at the moment.
It is noted that "Regulations embodying this dual organisation have been gazetted, and the Motor Boat owners who are sworn into the corps will be officers of the New Zealand Force in the same way that their colleagues of the Motor-Car Section".
During WW1 it seems to have taken on a NZ Defense roll, and have two sections
- A Motor Boat Section - a number of references were made in News Papers of the time, including 23rd of July 1915 which stated in the Auckland Star, that the Auckland Motor-boat Section of the New Zealand Forces Motor Service Corps had twenty motor-boats in the motor-boat section of the Motor Service Corps at the time. References are also made on the Torpedo Bay Naval Museum website, which features a picture of Charles Henry Tarr Palmer, who was a member of the Auckland Motor Boat Section of the NZ Forces Motor Service Corps. Early on in WW1 he organised patrols of the Hauraki Gulf by the force. He is pictured on the site wearing the below insignia. He went on to serve with the British Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve and saw action in the North Sea.
- A Motor-Car Section - details of its purpose are sketchy at the moment.
It is noted that "Regulations embodying this dual organisation have been gazetted, and the Motor Boat owners who are sworn into the corps will be officers of the New Zealand Force in the same way that their colleagues of the Motor-Car Section".
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- Opposite & Above: A Cap and Collar badge set in die-stamped brass to the New Zealand Forces Motor Service Corps. New Zealand made, they have copper wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass and enamel Cap badge to the Auckland Yachtsman's Volunteer Naval Defense Force (A.Y.V.N.D.F). Set up during WW1, the unit taught skills aligned with the Royal Navy and Royal Naval Reserve. They acted as recruiters for the Service. Two lugs to back (I am minus one), with the maker mark of "Young & Co", which were based in Auckland.
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- Above: Another example of a New Zealand Forces Motor Service Corps Cap and Collar badge. Note the non-voiding to crown on the Cap, and the collar is in darkened bronze (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Opposite: Two Cap badges which are two piece, to the New Zealand Military Forces Motor Reserve. Note the right is chromed. Both are marked impressed to back to "J R Gaunt London".
Purpose unknown at this stage, but maybe linked to the set above with Gaunt's take on this origanisations badge.
Purpose unknown at this stage, but maybe linked to the set above with Gaunt's take on this origanisations badge.
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.
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.
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- Above: A set of Cap and Collar badges in gilt brass with white metal centers to the New Zealand Armoured Corps . Again Onwards Cap and Collars have had their "NZ" removed and a center probably from a British badge has been sweated onto front (Ian Hamiliton Collection).
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- Above: A three piece brass Cap badge with separately attached "NZ" and Tank attached to center. Slider to back, with no maker mark (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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On the 12th of July 1947, the Corps was awarded the prefix "Royal" and changed its title to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps.
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- Above: A other ranks Black beret with white metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. Note the Corps' colours behind the badge. Beret dates from the 1950's (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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- Opposite: A gilt fired brass and silver or silver plate (not marked) Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. Kings crown, with long looped lugs to back. Maker marked in raised letters to "J R Gaunt London".
- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge opposing pair (note the turret of the guns points in different directions on each to center) to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. Both have two D shaped looped lugs to back, and have a "S" for Silver to back of crown. Maker impressed to back to "J R Gaunt London". |
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With a change in Monarch in 1952, the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps Cap and collar badge was updated to reflect the new crown.
- Opposite: A gilt fired brass and silver or silver plate (not marked) Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. Queens crown, with long looped lugs to back. Maker marked in raised letters to "J R Gaunt London". - Above: A gilt brass Collar badge opposing pair (note the turret gun to center on each) to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. Both have two D shaped looped lugs to back. Maker marked with raised letters to back to "J R Gaunt London". |
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- Opposite: A single piece, two tone, anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. Queens crown, with long looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above: A single piece, two tone, anodised aluminium Collar badge opposing pair (note the turret gun to center on each) to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. Both have two pins to back to be used with clutches. No maker mark. |
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- Above: A later/modern cloth shoulder title in Indian Yellow thread on a Rifle green background to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps.
- Opposite: A modern, single piece, gilt finished, white metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Armoured Corps. Solid to back, with two pins to back with clutches. No maker mark. Note the changes to crown and wreath. |
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- Above: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the New Zealand Armoured Corps, Black/Black/Black. Adopted in 1941, but also worn unposted New Zealand Regular Force recruits. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "7 ".
- Opposite: A pre 1952 Patt 19mm, Kings Crown, gilt brass button to the New Zealand Armoured Corps. Maker marked to "Gaunt, London". |
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 sporran badge to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish). Large single flat lug to back, but no maker name. |
- Above Top: A post 1961 shoulder title to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish).
- Above Bottom: A later shoulder title to the 1st Armoured Car Regiment (New Zealand Scottish). Bunting Yellow embroidered letters on a Rifle 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. |
- Above: A hand made sleeve badge or piece of "trench art" from WW2. Two piece brass, with safety pin backing.
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. |
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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.
It was in all major WW1 theaters as part of the New Zealand Field Ambulance.
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- Opposite & Above: A Stirling Silver Cap & Collar badge set to a Officer in the New Zealand Dental Corps. Owned by 3/648 Capt. Ernest P Pridham. All have a brooch fitting to back and all are stamped "Stg Silver".
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- Opposite: A image of 3/648 Capt. Ernest P Pridham, taken from "Onward : Portraits of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (Vols 5), by Beattie, P.J. & Pomeroy, M. (2013-2020). Ernest is possibly wearing the Cap, but the Collar badges appear subdued.
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Die stamped brass, with two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark. |
- Above: Another gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Die stamped brass, with two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark. Note the crown is a rounded type.
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- Above: A gilt brass Collar badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Die stamped brass, with two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A large solid backed, brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Copper D shaped looped lugs, and maker stamped to "Mayer & Kean, Wellington".
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- Above: A gilt pair of brass Collar badges to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Copper looped lugs, and no maker mark.
- Opposite 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.
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- Above: The 2nd Type of New Zealand Dental Corps Cap badge. This design seems to have originated overseas during WW1 by Gaunt, it then became the adopted badge of the Corps going forward during WW2 and beyond.
- Above Left: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Two copper looped lugs to back. which have been pinched to points. Maker plaqued to back of top banner to "J R Gaunt London". - Above Right: A darkened brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Two copper looped lugs to back. Maker plaqued to back of top banner to "J R Gaunt London". Note the non-voiding around the Kiwi to base. |
- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the New Zealand Dental Corps. Two thick wire copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Opposite: A non-matching pair of collar badges to the New Zealand Dental Corps. One has a dulled gilt finish, while the other is darkened. Note the Kiwi's are opposing to bottom center. Both have two short copper looped lugs to back, but with no maker mark.
In July 1947, the corps was awarded the prefix "Royal". It does not seemed to have updated its kings crown badges to reflect this. It wasn't until post 1952, that a new badge was adopted with the "Royal" prefix.
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- Opposite & Above: A 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 to Cap to "M & K Ltd, Well NZ" or Mayer and Kean Wellington New Zealand. The Collars have "M & K W NZ". The center on each is held on by two wires bent through holes in the surround to back. Thick wire looped lugs to each.
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- Above: A gilt brass and white metal Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. The white metal shield has been sweated onto the front. Two thick copper wire looped to back with the maker "M & K Ltd, Well NZ" for Mayer & Kean Limited, Wellington, New Zealand.
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- Above: A more modern strike of the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps Cap badge. In gilt metal with a frosted silver shield to front. Solid to back, with small gilt covered looped lugs. No maker mark.
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- Above: A single piece, two tone anodised aluminium Cap badge to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. No maker to back, with two long aluminium looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A pair of two tone, anodised aluminium staybrite Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. No maker mark with the above left collar having aluminium looped lugs, while the right has pins, to be used with clutches.
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- Above: A pair of single piece, dull aluminium Collar badges to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. No maker mark and with pin to back to be used with clutches.
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- Above: Cloth shoulder titles to the Royal New Zealand Dental Corps. Gold on Cossack Green. Note the lower title is the more modern, with embroidered border.
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- 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.
- Above Center: A darkened copper Cap badge to the New Zealand Chaplains' Department with blades to back. No maker mark.
- Above Middle and Bottom Rows: A darkened copper cap and collar badge set made by "K. C. Luke, Melb". |
Above: A early variation on the New Zealand Chaplains' Department Cap and Collar badge. These have a separate crown, attached to a hand-cut cross within a circle. Both have WW1 like brass hex reinforcement lugs to back.
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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: Two variations of Queens Crown Cap badge worn by either the British or Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department.
- Left: A single piece, bronze, tanged darkened Cap badge. Not maker marked. - Right: A multi-piece, gilt, Silver and enamel Cap badge. Not maker marked. 
- 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. 
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. |
In 1980, the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department were given permission to wear their own distinctive badge.
- Above Top: A single piece Cap badge set to the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department. Made from plated and gilt metal, with a dark purple resin or paint to center. Maker marked to "Mayer & Toye Ltd, Wellington, NZ". - Above: A single piece Cap and Collar badge set to the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department. Made from plated and gilt metal, with a lighter purple resin or paint to center. Flat to back, and no maker mark. 
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 pair of cloth shoulder title to the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department. White letters on a Royal Purple background. The older version, without embroidered edge is at top, while the more modern version is below. 
- Above: A puggaree to fit the Lemon Squeezer hat to the Royal New Zealand Chaplains' Department . Black/Khaki/Khaki/Black. Marked to inside with size only, in purple ink to "6 3/4".
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- Above: A image taken in 1941, in New Zealand by the New Zealand Artillery Officer on the far right, and who is standing with at least two other members of the New Zealand Artillery. In the center is a Chaplain, with the rank of Captain. He is wearing a Kings Crown, British Chaplains Cap Badge on his Lemon Squeezer, with a puggaree of Black/Khaki/Khaki/Black. You can just see the bottom band of black, partly obscured by the brim of his hat. I sadly do not know who they are.
- 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.
- Above: A bronze Cap badge to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. Two long copper wire looped lugs to back, with the maker mark of "M & K Ld, W" for Mayer & Kean Limited, Wellington. Size 44mm by 47mm.
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- Above: A similar Cap badge again to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. Gilt brass in finish (Ian Hamilton Collection).
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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 1994 the corps was given permission to wear a New Zealand version, and the WW2 pattern was updated with a Queens crown.
- Above: A frosted white metal British Intelligence Corps Cap badge, worn by the New Zealanders from 1987 to 1994. No maker mark and two thread posts with nuts to back.
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- Opposite & Above: A darkened bronze coloured Cap and Collar badge set to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. No maker mark to back of Collars, but the Cap has "Mayer & Toye, Wgtn, N.Z. (04) 3849 884", and all have two pins to use with clutches
Cap size is 42mm by 46mm. Collar size are 30mm by 32mm |
- Above: A darkened near black coloured Cap badge to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. No maker mark to back, with two pins to use with clutches.
Size is 42mm by 46mm. |
- Above: A brown coloured Cap badge to the New Zealand Intelligence Corps. Maker mark to back to "Mayer & Toye, Wgtn, N.Z. (04) 3849 884", with two looped lugs.
Size is 42mm by 46mm. |
- Opposite: A modern 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 Indigo embroidered lettered on Adonis 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.
Legion of Frontiersmen.
The Legion Of Frontiersman formed in 1904, in Britain.
It was a civilian organisation which was founded on fears that Britain and its Empire were to be invaded. It founded itself as a field intelligence corps that would watch over and protect the boundaries of the Empire. Its headquarters were in London.
In 1911, the Legion was founded in New Zealand, and spread around the country appealing to men of "active military service, hunting, "roughing it" and exploring in wild places", of which New Zealand must have been able to offer plenty.
There were some notable members, including seven New Zealand VC winners from WW1 and one from WW2.
New Zealand members of the Legion wore a distinct uniform of black tunic, fawn pants and a lemon squeezer hat.
It was a civilian organisation which was founded on fears that Britain and its Empire were to be invaded. It founded itself as a field intelligence corps that would watch over and protect the boundaries of the Empire. Its headquarters were in London.
In 1911, the Legion was founded in New Zealand, and spread around the country appealing to men of "active military service, hunting, "roughing it" and exploring in wild places", of which New Zealand must have been able to offer plenty.
There were some notable members, including seven New Zealand VC winners from WW1 and one from WW2.
New Zealand members of the Legion wore a distinct uniform of black tunic, fawn pants and a lemon squeezer hat.
- Above: A gilt brass Cap and Collar badge set to the Legion of Frontiersmen. All have two copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A gilt brass Cap badge to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Long brass slider to back, with the maker mark on the back of the shield to "M & K Ltd, Wgton", for Mayer and Kean Ltd, Wellington".
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- Above: A matching pair of solid backed, gilt brass shoulder titles to the Legion of Frontiersmen. Two looped lugs to the back of each. No maker mark.
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