Royal Navy button, King’s Crown (hollow reverse), 23mm, original example of British naval uniform insignia associated with the Royal Navy.
Manufactured in gilt metal, this 23mm uniform button features the classic fouled anchor surmounted by the King’s Crown, the traditional emblem of the Royal Navy throughout the reigns of George V, Edward VIII, and George VI. Unlike the more common shank-mounted examples, this button is fitted with a hollow reverse, allowing it to be sewn directly onto garments in the traditional manner.
The fouled anchor has served as the principal badge of the Royal Navy since the eighteenth century, symbolising Britain’s naval heritage and centuries of maritime service. Buttons of this pattern were worn on a variety of naval uniforms, including working dress, ratings’ uniforms, and certain specialist garments where a sewn button was preferred for greater durability.
During the King’s Crown period, the Royal Navy played a pivotal role in global operations, serving throughout the First World War and World War II. Sailors wearing buttons of this pattern served aboard battleships, cruisers, destroyers, submarines, aircraft carriers, and countless auxiliary vessels, safeguarding Britain’s sea lanes and participating in every major naval theatre of the twentieth century.
Following the accession of Elizabeth II in 1952, King’s Crown insignia were progressively replaced by the St Edward’s Crown (Queen’s Crown), making earlier King’s Crown examples increasingly collectable.
Original Royal Navy hollow reverse buttons are less commonly encountered than standard shank-mounted officer’s buttons and are sought after by collectors of naval uniforms, maritime memorabilia, and British military insignia.
Manufactured in gilt metal with its original hollow reverse fitting, this example represents an authentic and collectable piece of Royal Navy uniform history.
Dimensions
23mm diameter
Condition
Good overall original condition, with crisp detailing and an attractive gilt finish. Light age-related wear, minor surface marks, and signs of uniform use or storage may be present. The original hollow reverse remains intact and undamaged. No significant dents, repairs, or structural damage are evident.
