Royal Navy Officer’s Gilt Button, Queen’s Crown – 23.5mm

Royal Navy officer’s gilt button (Queen’s Crown pattern), 23.5mm, original example of British naval uniform insignia associated with the Royal Navy.

Manufactured in gilt metal, this 23.5mm officer’s uniform button features the iconic fouled anchor surmounted by the St Edward’s Crown (Queen’s Crown), identifying it as the pattern worn during the reign of Elizabeth II between 1953 and 2022. The fouled anchor has long been the principal emblem of the Royal Navy, symbolising its rich maritime heritage and centuries of distinguished service.

Officer’s buttons of this size were worn on a variety of naval uniforms, including service dress, No. 1 dress, reefer jackets, and ceremonial attire. Privately purchased or supplied through approved naval outfitters, these gilt buttons were manufactured to a high standard, with sharply defined detail and a durable polished finish suitable for everyday wear and ceremonial occasions.

During the period in which this pattern was worn, Royal Navy officers served across the globe throughout the Cold War and beyond. They participated in operations including the Korean War, the Suez Crisis, the Indonesian Confrontation, the Cod Wars, the Falklands War, the Gulf conflicts, operations in the Balkans, Iraq, Afghanistan, and numerous humanitarian, peacekeeping, and maritime security missions.

Following the accession of Charles III in 2022, Royal Navy uniform insignia began transitioning to patterns incorporating the Tudor Crown, making the Queen’s Crown version the final Elizabeth II pattern worn over nearly seven decades.

Original Royal Navy officer’s gilt buttons remain highly sought after by collectors of naval militaria due to their quality manufacture, timeless design, and association with one of the world’s oldest and most distinguished naval services.

Manufactured in gilt metal and retaining its original reverse shank fitting, this example represents an authentic and collectable piece of modern Royal Navy uniform history.

Dimensions

23.5mm diameter

Condition

Good overall original condition, with crisp detailing and gilt finish. Light age-related wear, minor surface marks, and signs of uniform use or storage may be present. The original reverse shank remains intact and secure.