British, 19th Century, Regimental Snuff Box, Gloucestershire Regiment ’Egypt’ Badge”

*British, 19th Century, Regimental Snuff Box, Gloucestershire Regiment ’Egypt’ Badge”*

A mid-19th century brass snuff box measuring approx. 8 cm × 4.9 cm × 1 cm, the lid applied with a gilt under-cut wreath surrounding a sphinx on pedestal inscribed “EGYPT”. The emblem is the well-known symbol of the back badge worn rear-and-front by the Gloucestershire Regiment (and its predecessor the 28th (Foot)) in commemoration of the Battle of Alexandria, March 1801.

Measurements: approx. 8 cm × 4.9 cm × 1 cm (approx. 3.15″ × 1.93″ × 0.39″).

Historical Note:
The 28th (North Gloucestershire) Regiment of Foot gained the unique privilege of wearing a badge on both front and rear of headdress, following their gallant action at Alexandria when French cavalry broke through and the regiment formed back–to–back. In 1881 the 28th amalgamated with the 61st to form the Gloucestershire Regiment, which carried on the “back badge” tradition.

*Condition*
The box retains good form, lid and base in brass; some surface denting and edge knocks, interior shows oxidation and patina consistent with age. The emblem shows wear but remains distinct. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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