Royal Engineers George VI Sweetheart Brooch

Material: Gilt brass with blue and white enamel
Size: 17mm w × 20mm h
Description: This is a miniature sweetheart brooch featuring the intricate "GR" cipher of King George VI in gilt metal, set against a white enamel center. The central motif is encircled by a blue enamel garter bearing the Order of the Garter motto, "HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE" (Shame on him who thinks evil of it). The badge is surmounted by a Tudor Crown (King's Crown) with red enamel detailing and framed by a gold-tone laurel wreath. At the base, a blue enamel scroll displays the regimental title "ROYAL ENGINEERS" in gold lettering. 
Reverse: Plain gilt with single loop fitting for brooch or pendant mount. Missing pin.
Circa: 1936 – 1952
Notes:
"Sweetheart" badges were unofficial tokens of affection purchased by soldiers to send home to wives, mothers, or girlfriends, allowing them to display support for their loved one's regiment. Unlike the official issue cap badge, which features the motto "UBIQUE" (Everywhere) on a top scroll and "QUO FAS ET GLORIA DUCUNT" (Where Right and Glory Lead) on the bottom, this civilian brooch simplifies the design by explicitly stating "ROYAL ENGINEERS" for clear identification by the public. Since these were privately manufactured by various jewelers rather than government-issued, they exist in countless variations of materials, from simple gilt brass and enamel to sterling silver and tortoiseshell.