BACKGROUND: Cap badges were usually made of white metal, brass, copper or bi-metal. Most commonly brass and white metal were used. With the shortage of ferrous metal towards the end of 1940, an alternative material was needed for the manufacture of cap badges. Rolled brass and bakelite were among the materials tested but it was cellulose acetate that was finally selected, as it was a modern plastic that could be used with injection molding equipment. The first cellulose acetate badges were produced in December of 1941and were limited to the corp. level, with the regimental level badges going into production in June of 1942. Since the average soldier preferred the metal badges over the plastic and they were produced for a short period of time, plastic cap badges can be fairly rare. The Middlesex Regiment can trace their beginning back to The duke of Cambridge’s Own (Middlesex Regiment) that was formed on July 1^st, 1881.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: An injection molded, brown plastic, cap badge, about 1 5/8" by 2", consisting of the honor scroll "ALBUHERA", surmounted with a crown above which is the motto "ICH DIEN" (I serve) within a scroll surmounted by the Prince of Wales crown and all within a wreath of laurel leaves mounted on a scroll with the text "MIDDLESEX REGI." To the reverse are two flat alloy retaining tabs that have a couple of minor wear marks. Other than the minor wear to the tabs and some surface scratching to the reverse the badge is in very good condition.

GRADE****1/4                             PRICE $43.00