Suffolk Regiment Silver Badge, Lion hallmark only

[allectus]

This is a silver Army badge my wife found recently when detecting in an English field, the condition is pretty much how it was dug up. It only has one hallmark (?) on it which is a lion, I am unsure about what the single mark means, is it just to indicate its silver and if so is there no way to tell when and where it was made. Advice appreciated please.

http://www2.filehost.to/files/2007-03-2 ... 0DPI46.jpg

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Paul

[carling]

When English items of silver are constructed of more than one piece you often find that the full set of hallmarks are applied to just one piece and the lion passant (and sometimes date letter) is applied to others. It would seem that your badge is missing the fully hallmarked section - the badge clip perhaps. There is therefore no way of knowing who made it or when and where it was assayed.

The lion passant indicates that the item is made of sterling silver and assayed in the UK.

Regards/carling

[allectus]

Carling, it would be difficult to think of a more precise/concise and accurate reply than yours, thankyou, your help is appreciated.

[dognose]

Hi Allectus,
Some more research into the badge itself may narrow down your search, I am not sure but I think that is a Queens crown on top, so either Victoria or Elizabeth II. The XII on the base, I think that stands for The 12th. Regiment of Foot proberly does not appear on later badges. These badges were usualy made in Birmingham and a silver one would be for officers only.
This is only guesswork but I am sure if you scour the internet it could provide some answers.
Regards Trev.

[Granmaa]

Here's a bit of info on the subject:

In 1769 a 14 year period in Gibraltar began. The Regiment took an active part in the Great Siege when Gibraltar was besieged by the Spanish and French between 1779 and 1783. Under Colonel William Picton, the Regiment formed the main body of the Grand Sortie which broke the siege on 17 November 1781. In recognition of its services in the siege the Regiment added the illustrious name Gibraltar to its Colours and the arms of Gibraltar was taken as its crest. This comprised a Castle and Key with Montis Insignia Calpe (The arms of the Rock of Gibraltar) beneath, to be worn thereafter in its cap badge and Colours.

I'd guess it was made in the 30's. I've also seen a silver spoon with this badge made in 1937.

Miles