Royal Engineers lapel badge featuring the GRV (King George V) cypher, of the pattern associated with the period 1910 to 1936. This finely detailed example, carved from mother-of-pearl, displays the Corps’ traditional device in relief, incorporating the royal cypher and Royal motto in a circlet beneath a crown, with surrounding wreath and scroll bearing the title “Royal Engineers”. The use of iridescent mother-of-pearl gives the piece a distinctive decorative quality typical of personal or sweetheart badges of the era.
The GRV cypher denotes the reign of King George V, situating the badge within the First World War and interwar period. Lapel badges of this type were often worn by soldiers in civilian dress or presented as tokens to family members and loved ones, forming part of the wider tradition of British military sweetheart jewellery. The Royal Engineers, responsible for military engineering, fortifications, and technical support, played a vital role in both wartime and peacetime operations.
Manufactured with a mother-of-pearl face with a metal brooch fitting, this example provides a representative piece of early twentieth-century British military insignia with both personal and regimental significance. Royal Engineers lapel badges are collected as examples of First World War memorabilia, sweetheart jewellery, and Corps-related insignia.
Dimensions
Approx. 36mm height
Condition
Very good overall condition with well-preserved mother-of-pearl surface and clear detailing. Fittings to the reverse remain intact and secure. No significant damage or repairs are evident.
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