Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps (QARANC) anodised button (Queen’s Crown, 1953–2022 pattern), 26mm, an original example of British Army medical corps uniform insignia associated with the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps.
Manufactured in anodised aluminium, this 26mm uniform button bears the distinctive badge of the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps surmounted by the St Edward’s Crown, identifying it as the pattern worn during the reign of Elizabeth II between 1953 and 2022. Lightweight, durable, and resistant to tarnishing, anodised buttons became standard on many British Army uniforms during the post-war period.
The Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps traces its origins to the Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Nursing Service, established in 1902 and named in honour of Alexandra of Denmark. In 1949, the service was reorganised as the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps, continuing its vital role in providing professional nursing care to British Army personnel in peace and war.
Throughout the period during which this button was worn, QARANC officers and soldiers served wherever the British Army was deployed, including during the Korean War, the Malayan Emergency, Northern Ireland, the Falklands conflict, the Gulf War, operations in the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan, as well as numerous humanitarian and peacekeeping missions around the world. The Corps has earned an outstanding reputation for professionalism, compassion, and clinical excellence in both military hospitals and operational environments.
This Queen’s Crown pattern remained in service until 2022, when the accession of Charles III resulted in the adoption of updated insignia bearing the Tudor Crown. As such, it represents the final Elizabeth II pattern worn by members of QARANC.
Manufactured in anodised aluminium and retaining its original reverse shank fitting, this example represents an authentic and collectable piece of modern British Army nursing history.
Dimensions
26mm diameter
Condition
Good overall original condition, with crisp detailing and a well-preserved anodised finish. Light age-related wear, minor surface marks, and signs of uniform use and storage may be present. The original reverse shank remains intact and secure. No significant damage or repairs evident unless otherwise noted.
