Indian Army Unattached List Officer’s Quality Button (GRI, 1910-1947) – 24mm

Indian Army Unattached List officer’s quality button (GRI, 1910–1947 pattern), a 24mm example of British Indian Army uniform insignia associated with officers of the Indian Army serving on the Unattached List during the reigns of George V and George VI.

The button design features the royal cypher “GRI” (Georgius Rex Imperator) beneath the King’s crown, reflecting the title “Emperor of India” used during the British colonial period. Surrounding decorative elements and the high-quality finish identify this as an officer’s quality example, manufactured to a finer standard than other ranks’ insignia.

The Unattached List formed part of the structure of the British Indian Army, comprising officers awaiting posting, attached for training, or serving in administrative capacities before assignment to a specific regiment or corps. Buttons of this type were worn on officers’ service dress and formal uniforms throughout the late colonial period in India.

The 24mm size corresponds to use on tunics and outer uniform garments where larger buttons were required. Officer-quality Indian Army insignia from the colonial era is widely collected for its association with British imperial military administration and the distinctive identity of the Indian Army prior to independence in 1947.

Manufactured in brass or gilt-finish metal with a shank fitting to the reverse, this example represents a refined piece of British Indian military uniform insignia.

Dimensions
24mm diameter

Condition
Very good, with crisp detailing and a well-preserved finish. Light surface wear consistent with age and service use may be present. The reverse shank remains intact and secure. No significant damage or repairs are evident.