*British Royal Navy, c.1903–1939, H.M.S. Pembroke Sailor’s Cap Tally, Black Silk with Gilt Lettering*
An original and attractive Royal Navy cap tally bearing the title “H.M.S. PEMBROKE,” woven in gilt lettering on black silk ribbon. These tallies were worn by junior ratings on the traditional sailor’s cap and remain one of the most recognisable pieces of Royal Naval uniform insignia.
Approx. Measurements – Length: 60 cm.
Hostory Note:
The use of the full “H.M.S. PEMBROKE” title with full stops and smaller gilt woven lettering is typically associated with pre-Second World War issue, most commonly dating from c.1903–1939, as during WWII many sailors were instead issued plain “H.M.S.” tallies for security reasons.
HMS Pembroke most commonly refers to the Royal Naval Barracks at Chatham, Kent, which operated under this name from 1903 until its closure in 1984. As a major shore establishment and administrative centre, countless sailors passed through HMS Pembroke during both World Wars and throughout the 20th century, making named cap tallies from this establishment highly collectible and strongly associated with Britain’s naval history.
Cap tallies such as this were issued to ordinary seamen and ratings, worn around the cap band with the ends tied neatly at the rear. The black silk construction with woven gilt title is the classic wartime and post-war style, and examples with clear legible lettering display very well.
A desirable original Royal Navy uniform piece with strong display appeal and excellent maritime collecting interest.
*Condition*
Good original condition with clear gilt lettering and strong black silk body. Some light age-related creasing, minor handling wear, and slight fraying to the tied ends as expected from service use and age. Displays very well overall. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
