Australian Merchant Seamens' Day fundraising button

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c. 1940

Overview

Circular fundraising badge or button sold during World War Two to support the 'Australian Merchant Seamens' Day' appeal. It is made from printed paper between a tin base and celluloid cover.
It features a central illustration of the Australian Red Ensign flying from a dark blue flagpole on a white background.
Around the upper perimeter are the words 'AUSTRALIAN MERCHANT SEAMEN'S DAY' in blue lettering, while the denomination of '1/-' (one shilling) is at the bottom.
The reverse has a metal pin which encircles the edge of the badge before ending in a point which can be pushed through clothing for attachment. There are no maker's marks.

Historical information

The Sailors' Day and Merchant Seamen's Appeals during World War II were nationwide charity and fundraising campaigns in Australia designed to support Allied merchant navy personnel and naval seamen.
Organised through various charitable groups like the Royal Navy and local merchant navy welfare funds, these regular appeals raised vital capital to provide comfort packages, medical aid, and financial relief to the families of sailors who faced immense danger keeping supply lines open.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-119-RoW01142

Item type

Badges

Collectibles

Ephemera

Themes

Defence > Navy

Social History

Transport

Material