8th (90th Winnipeg Rifles) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force Tiepin Sweetheart Brooch

8th (90th Winnipeg Rifles) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force sweetheart tiepin brooch, an original example of Canadian First World War sweetheart jewellery associated with the 8th Battalion (90th Winnipeg Rifles), Canadian Expeditionary Force.

Manufactured in silver plate and rose gold-toned metal, this sweetheart tiepin brooch features the badge of the 8th (90th Winnipeg Rifles) Battalion and was designed to be worn on civilian attire as a symbol of pride and support for a serving soldier. Pieces of this type were commonly purchased by members of the battalion or presented to wives, fiancées, mothers, and sweethearts as cherished mementoes during the First World War.

The 8th Battalion was authorised in September 1914 and recruited primarily in Winnipeg, Manitoba, drawing heavily from the historic 90th Winnipeg Rifles, one of Canada’s oldest volunteer militia regiments. The battalion embarked for Britain in October 1914 and landed in France in February 1915 as part of the 1st Canadian Division.

Throughout the First World War, the battalion served with distinction on the Western Front, taking part in many of Canada’s most significant engagements, including the Second Battle of Ypres, the Battle of the Somme, the Battle of Vimy Ridge, the Battle of Passchendaele, and the Hundred Days Offensive. The unit earned an outstanding reputation for courage and determination, suffering heavy casualties while contributing to the growing international recognition of the Canadian Corps.

Sweetheart jewellery became especially popular during the First World War, allowing families and loved ones to display their connection to a serving soldier. Tie pin brooches such as this are less commonly encountered than standard sweetheart brooches, making them particularly appealing to collectors of Canadian military insignia and First World War memorabilia.

Manufactured with its original tie pin fitting to the reverse, this example represents an authentic and historically significant piece of Canadian regimental and social history.

Dimensions

Approx. 50mm width

Condition

Good overall original condition, with crisp detailing and an attractive age-related finish. The original tiepin fitting remains intact and fully functional. No significant damage or repairs evident.