Straight Australia metal shoulder title - 2
Single, oxidised black shoulder title featuring the word 'Australia' on a void background in straight formation. It comprises the nine letters that make up the word Australia joined to two horizontal lines above and below.
The title appears to have been cast in one piece and there is fine etching between the letters at the top and bottom.
The reverse has two circular copper lugs - one at either end of the title - through which a split pin would be threaded for attachment to the fabric epaulette of the uniform.
There is no maker's mark.
The 'AUSTRALIA' shoulder title was first mentioned in 'Standing Orders for Dress and Clothing' 1912, where it was stated: "Officers serving abroad are permitted to wear on the shoulder strap, while with other troops, the word 'AUSTRALIA' in brass or gilt letters." The curved 'AUSTRALIA' badge, in an oxidized (black) finish, was worn by all ranks of the A.I.F. during World War One on the shoulder strap (or epaulette) of the jacket.
WWI nurses were issued with silver straight shoulder titles, but they were smaller in size.
There is anecdotal evidence that officers were issued with straight titles, but this can't be confirmed.
This example of a straight shoulder title differs from the other in the collection by being made from oxidised black brass and being cast in one piece. The individual letters sit on top rather than between the two horizontal lines. It appears to be machine made rather than hand made.
Details
Details
"AUSTRALIA"
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