*British, WW1–Early Interwar, Comrades of the Great War “Official” Enamel Lapel Badge with Scroll – J.R. Gaunt London – Early Number 1195*
An original and scarce British Comrades of the Great War enamelled lapel badge retaining its distinctive lower blue scroll marked “OFFICIAL”, produced by renowned military insignia maker J.R. Gaunt, London and issued with an unusually low serial number 1195. Constructed in gilt brass with translucent blue enamel and a centrally mounted Union Flag in red, white and blue enamel, this example represents one of the early veteran association insignia issued during or immediately after the First World War period.
Unlike the standard membership badge, this pattern carries the additional lower “OFFICIAL” scroll, identifying it as a special issue variant associated with organisational or committee duties rather than ordinary membership. The reverse retains the original crescent buttonhole fitting and is crisply stamped “J.R. GAUNT” together with issue number 1195.
Approx. Measurements – Height: 3.1 cm. Width: 2.5 cm.
History Note:
The Comrades of the Great War organisation was established in 1917 as one of Britain's earliest major veteran associations, formed to represent and support former servicemen returning from the First World War. It sought to provide welfare support, comradeship and advocacy for discharged soldiers and sailors in the difficult years following the conflict.
In 1921, the organisation amalgamated with several other veteran groups—including the National Association of Discharged Sailors and Soldiers and the Officers' Association—to form the British Legion, later granted Royal status as the Royal British Legion.
This “Official” badge is considerably scarcer than standard membership examples. The very low stamped number 1195 strongly suggests an early issue, likely dating close to the initial formation period of the organisation or early regional administration rollout. Many surviving standard examples carry substantially higher five- or six-figure issue numbers, making low-numbered examples particularly desirable to collectors of veteran and Great War memorabilia.
J.R. Gaunt of London was among Britain’s foremost military insignia manufacturers and supplied a vast array of regimental, association and veteran badges throughout the late Victorian, Edwardian and wartime periods.
*Condition*
Good original condition with attractive age patina to the gilt brass. Enamel remains largely intact with only minor age-related surface wear and small losses visible under close examination. Reverse retains original crescent buttonhole fitting. Maker mark and issue number remain clear and legible. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMCOXEE_2919241719
