A Guide to Collecting British Military Cap Badges
Cap badges are one of the most popular areas of military collecting. They are relatively affordable, endlessly varied, and represent the proud identity of every regiment and corps in the British Army. From the earliest Victorian patterns to modern-day badges, collecting military cap badges offers a fascinating journey through British military history.
What Are Cap Badges?
Cap badges (also known as head-dress badges) are metal insignia worn on military headgear to identify the wearer’s regiment, corps, or branch of service. British Army cap badges feature regimental crests, mottoes, battle honours, and heraldic devices unique to each unit. The variety is enormous — with hundreds of different patterns produced since the mid-19th century.
Types of Military Badges
Cap Badges — the main head-dress badge, worn on the front of the cap, beret, or helmet. The most widely collected type.
Collar Badges — smaller badges worn on the collar of the tunic, usually in pairs. Often feature a simplified version of the cap badge design.
Shoulder Titles — metal or embroidered titles worn on the shoulders, identifying the regiment by name or abbreviation.
Officers’ vs Other Ranks — officers’ badges are typically made of superior metals (silver, gilt, or silver-plate), while other ranks’ badges are usually struck in brass or white metal.
Building a Collection
- Focus on a theme — collect by regiment, county, war, or badge type. Some collectors focus on a single regiment’s badges through the years; others try to complete a set of all regiments from a particular period.
- Learn the makers — firms like J.R. Gaunt, Firmin & Sons, and Dowler produced most military badges. Back-marks and construction methods help with dating and authentication.
- Condition matters — look for badges with intact lugs/sliders, clear detail, and original finish. Replaced or repaired fittings reduce value.
- Beware reproductions — some badges, particularly scarce patterns, have been extensively copied. Buy from trusted dealers who guarantee authenticity.
Display and Storage
Many collectors display badges on cloth-covered boards, arranged by regiment or period. Purpose-made display cases with individual compartments protect badges from damage and allow easy viewing. Store badges in a dry environment to prevent corrosion.
Explore our collection: Browse our extensive range of military badges covering regiments from across the British Army.