Highland Light Infantry (HLI) Officer’s Gilt Collar Badge (1902-c.1904 Pattern) – Original

Highland Light Infantry (HLI) officer’s gilt collar badge (1902–c.1904 pattern), original example of Edwardian British Army regimental insignia associated with the Highland Light Infantry.

Manufactured in gilt metal to officer quality, this collar badge was worn on the service dress uniform by officers of the Highland Light Infantry during the early years of the reign of Edward VII. Produced for only a short period between 1902 and approximately 1904, this pattern is considerably scarcer than later examples and represents an important transitional design in the regiment’s uniform history.

The Highland Light Infantry traced its origins to the 71st (Highland) Regiment of Foot and the 74th (Highland) Regiment of Foot, which were amalgamated under the Childers Reforms in 1881. Recruiting principally from the city of Glasgow and the surrounding Lanarkshire area, the regiment was unique among Scottish infantry regiments in wearing trews rather than the kilt for most forms of service dress, while preserving its distinctive Highland traditions.

This early Edwardian pattern was worn during the closing stages of the Second Boer War and immediately before the extensive uniform changes introduced in the years preceding the First World War. The regiment subsequently served with great distinction during the Great War, raising numerous battalions that fought on the Western Front, at Gallipoli, in Salonika, Egypt, Palestine, and Mesopotamia.

Officer’s collar badges of this period were privately purchased and manufactured to a much higher standard than other ranks’ insignia, with finely die-struck detail and a rich gilt finish. Because this particular pattern remained in service for only a brief period, original examples are highly desirable and increasingly difficult to obtain, particularly in well-preserved condition.

Manufactured in gilt metal with original attachment fittings to the reverse, this example represents an authentic and historically significant piece of early twentieth-century British regimental insignia.

Dimensions

Approx. 30mm height

Condition

Good overall original condition, with crisp detailing and a well-preserved gilt finish. The original reverse fittings remain intact and secure. No significant damage or repairs evident unless otherwise noted.