HELP with Victorian Sgt. rank addition...1st Berkshire Volunteers c. 1880's

[grimble-nibitz]

This lovely tunic turned up at a show where nobody recognized how early it was.  I am confused by the pip or star above the rank.  Everything else is pretty obvious.  I feel this is quite unusual, boards shown for identification of the unit in case this matters with the odd piece of insignia.  Collars are missing and I assume will be a 'dog' to find in silver color and of this era.  The net is quite barren as to information on this period's British insignia, strangely, unless it's metal badges!  Thanks folks!  

[grimble-nibitz]

More shots of this piece

[Guards Armoured]

What a great find! I think I have the answer to your question, the star is a proficiency badge for snco‘s introduced in 1878.I took a quick snapshot from an excellent book on the subject, “British Army proficiency badges” by Denis Edwards and David Langley, I hope it came out alright.

Best regards,

Robert

[grimble-nibitz]

Thank you, thank you!  Yes, it shows up well.  What an oddball piece of insignia.  Much appreciated!  

 

[Jerry B]

stunning tunic, jam pot cuff type?