*British Army, WWII / Mid-20th Century, Crossed Rifles Sleeve Proficiency Badge – Embroidered Marksman Qualification Patch*
An original British Army crossed rifles sleeve proficiency badge, dating from the Second World War to early post-war period, embroidered in white and brown thread onto a khaki wool backing. This attractive cloth insignia represents a musketry or marksmanship qualification, awarded to soldiers who had achieved a recognised standard of rifle shooting and worn as a visible sign of proficiency on service dress or battledress uniforms.
The badge features a pair of crossed rifles, neatly embroidered with white stocks and barrels, highlighted with brown detailing to the actions and upper sections, all mounted on the original shaped khaki wool backing. This style is typical of wartime and immediate post-war British Army insignia, designed for direct sewing onto the sleeve of battledress blouses and service dress tunics.
Such crossed rifles badges were commonly associated with musketry instruction, qualified marksmen, and shooting proficiency awards across various British Army units. Variations existed depending on branch, period, and level of qualification, but the crossed rifle motif remained one of the most recognisable military skill-at-arms insignia.
Approx. Measurements – Width: 5.5 cm. Height: 5 cm.
*Condition*
A good original example showing honest service wear, with stitch holes and loose threads to the reverse from period removal from uniform. Light age wear throughout consistent with service use. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3106A_1578238767
