Material: White metal
Diameter / Size: 57mm (W) × 57mm (H)
Maker: Unmarked
Design: This artifact is an exceptionally sharp, square-proportioned 57mm x 57mm regimental cap badge issued to the Highland Light Infantry of Canada. The intricate layout is anchored by a diamond-patterned St. Andrew's cross superimposed over a multi-pointed sunburst star, which creates a highly layered geometric framework. The central vignette features a deeply curved, coiled stringed bugle horn framing a triple-pointed Canadian maple leaf that is embossed with the distinct raised monogram letters "HLI." The top of the star is surmounted by a detailed St. Edward's Queen's Crown, while the base features a thinned thistle blossom directly below a sweeping scroll banner bearing the unit's historic motto "DEFENCE NOT DEFIANCE."
Reverse: From reference the badge issued with a slider; it looks like it broke and 2 loop lugs were added.
Circa: 1953-1965
Condition: Very good, light patina with minor age wear.
Notes:
While heavily inspired by the traditional design of the British Army's Highland Light Infantry (which features a crown, horn, and elephant motif), this distinct Canadian variant is easily identified by the presence of the central maple leaf containing the HLI monogram and the specific "Defence Not Defiance" motto on the lower scroll. This specific motto dates back to the unit's founding lineage as the 29th Waterloo Battalion of Infantry in 19th-century Ontario.
This configuration represents the final iteration of the badge before the regiment underwent major structural changes. In 1965, the Highland Light Infantry of Canada officially amalgamated with The Scots Fusiliers of Canada to form the Highland Fusiliers of Canada (later receiving the royal designation in 1998 to become The Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada), making this a scarce twelve-year production window item.