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.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: An injection molded, gold tinted plastic, cap badge, about 1 11/16" by 1 7/16", which consists of the Prince of Wales crown with scrolls to either side with the motto "ICH," "DIEN"(I serve) mounted on a scroll with the inscription "The Welch." To the reverse are two flat alloy retaining tabs and the embossed markings "1-A" and "A Stanley & Sons," "Walsall." Although one of the retaining tabs is bent the badge is in excellent unused condition.

GRADE****1/2                             PRICE $55.00