Material: Brass and white metal, bi-metal construction
Size: 55 mm w × 45 mm h
Description: This British Army infantry headdress insignia showcases the distinctive bi-metal composition utilized for line infantry forces. Struck in a bold combination of gilding metal and white metal, the centerpiece depicts a highly textured, braided rope twisted into a classic local knot pattern. Positioned directly above the knot is a detailed King's Crown, which anchors the piece to a specific era of royal authority. A sweeping, stylized white metal banner spans the base of the design, featuring the embossed block letter designation of the regiment. The reverse of the piece features an unmarked solid vertical metal slider designed to secure the emblem tightly to a soldier's peaked cap or beret.
Circa: 1901-1952
Notes:
The central image motif on this piece is the ancient Stafford Knot, a historic regional symbol chosen to represent the amalgamation of the old 38th and 80th Regiments of Foot. Because this emblem features the distinctively domed King's Crown profile (historically associated with King Edward VII, George V, and George VI), it serves as a direct indicator that the piece was manufactured before Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne and introduced her signature St. Edward's Crown variant.