Material: Gilt brass
Size: 25 mm
Description: This is a circular brass uniform button featuring the official insignia of the British Army's Royal Engineers. The central motif displays the elegant "GVI R" royal cipher of King George VI, indicating production during his reign. This cipher is enclosed within a circular garter band inscribed with the historic motto "HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE." The entire central emblem is surmounted by the Tudor Crown, also known as the King's Crown. Curving along the lower edge of the smooth brass face, the unit name "ROYAL ENGINEERS" is boldly struck in clean, block uppercase lettering. The reverse side of the button is stamped with the maker mark of the famous insignia company, J.R. Gaunt & Son, London.
Circa: 1936 – 1952
Notes:
The 25mm measurement indicates that this is a large-size button, historically utilized for the main front closure of an officer or enlisted man's service dress tunic rather than the smaller pocket or cuff positions. Buttons produced during the reign of King George VI saw heavy service throughout the Second World War, making them highly recognizable artifacts of the conflict. J.R. Gaunt & Son was one of the premier military outfitter firms in England, operating a major manufactory in Birmingham and a prestigious showroom in London.