Material: Chrome-plated Metal
Size: 90mm w x 160mm h
Description: The flagpole topper presents a beautifully sculpted fleur-de-lis cast in solid brass with a highly polished chrome plating that emphasizes its fluid, mid-century curves. The central petal rises sharply with a prominent vertical center ridge, flanked by two out-turned petals containing a star-shaped cutout on each side. A stylized rope tie wraps tightly around the midsection of the emblem, connecting the top petals to the lower scrollwork. Spanning the lower base is an ornate, upward-curving ribbon banner that houses the raised, sandblast-textured motto "BE PREPARED" in crisp capital lettering. The entire sculptural emblem seamlessly transitions into a hollow cylindrical ferrule mount at the bottom, which is specifically designed to slide securely onto the tapered end of a standard wooden parade pole.
Circa: 1930-1970s
Notes:
This specific type of heavy metal finial was manufactured to top the official troop flag staffs carried during formal parades, color guard ceremonies, and international jamborees. The fleur-de-lis design was originally chosen for scouting by Lord Baden-Powell because it historically represented the north point on a compass, symbolizing that a Scout should always be a reliable guide.
Rover Sea Scouts design.