London Metropolitan Police Badges Through The Ages.

[Dave Wilkinson]

The "Met" are frequently the subject of media coverage here in the UK., often for the wrong reasons. They have been in existence since their formation in 1829 and in six years time will celebrate their bi-centenary. Alas, for a variety of reasons they no longer seem to be the iconic organisation they once were and seem to stagger from one crisis to another. Nonetheless, they were the model upon which the majority of police forces here and abroad were based.

 

As can be expected the items of insignia used over the years are many and varied and are arguably amongst the most collected by enthusiasts here in the UK and overseas. Over the next week or so I will show my personal Metpol. badge collection which some forum members may find of interest. I'll start with the Victorian period and work through to the present day. The force introduced the iconic bobbies helmet in circa. 1865 and this coincided with their first helmet plate/badge, a gartered wreath with a Victorian Crown atop. Its been suggested that the first helmet plate was a large Maltese cross shaped badge. If it was then examples seem not to have survived. As an aside, I should explain that it is really incorrect to describe all police helmets as "Custodian" helmets. The term "Custodian" is a registered trade name for the helmet manufacturing company "C.W. Headdress Ltd", they began using the name in the 1980's. It being marked on the inside of police helmets made by them. So, if the helmet was not made by C.W. Headdress Ltd and dates from the 1980's then it is NOT a "Custodian" helmet. I hope that gem of information is helpful. 

 

So, here we are with the first grouping. The plates with the large divisional letters in the centre were worn, top left by Chief Inspectors and top right, by Inspectors. The gartered badges (without wreath/star) were worn on the belly strap by mounted police. The "BR" plate was worn by "B" division reserves. The numbered helmet plates which show a single letter signify the division the wearer was posted to. 

 

Dave.    

Edited April 16, 2023 by Dave Wilkinson

[I_♥_Police]

Looks absolutely great! Thanks for posting. I'm lucky enough to have already seem some of these which you kindly sent me pictures of by email, however they are a window to the past. Can't be many examples of any of these around. In fact, a couple of them i've only ever seen pictures of, never pictures of the actual metal badge in reality. My main interest is in the later badges and equipment, however this is great. Don't suppose you know which Divisions trialled the breast badge in the 70s or 80s and what made them decide against it? There are some pictures on the net somewhere of an Inspector with the experimental breast badge on his tunic and two little stars above it, worn on the chest rather than the shoulder as per norm.

[Dave Wilkinson]

1 hour ago, I_♥_Police said:

Looks absolutely great! Thanks for posting. I'm lucky enough to have already seem some of these which you kindly sent me pictures of by email, however they are a window to the past. Can't be many examples of any of these around. In fact, a couple of them i've only ever seen pictures of, never pictures of the actual metal badge in reality. My main interest is in the later badges and equipment, however this is great. Don't suppose you know which Divisions trialled the breast badge in the 70s or 80s and what made them decide against it? There are some pictures on the net somewhere of an Inspector with the experimental breast badge on his tunic and two little stars above it, worn on the chest rather than the shoulder as per norm.

Yes, I think you may have been one of the few that have have had sight of some of these boards previously. With regard to the short lived breast badge, I think the Met. one I have is from "K" division. Several forces experimented with a similar badge but the idea did not really seem to take off. I think Greater Manchester still use one and Dorset did also, although I'm told that they no longer use theirs as it was only worn on the tunic, a garment they no longer issue.

 

Kent Constabulary issued their version in 1984. I can pin down the year exactly because the first time I saw one was when I was standing waiting to be served breakfast at an army camp in Humberside during the miners strike. The bobby in front of me was from Kent and I commented on his breast badge. He told me that they had only just been issued, were total rubbish and that the fittings on the back were held on with water soluble glue which fell apart when it rained. He took the badge off, handed it to me and said, "There you go mate its yours, I'll say it dropped off". I still have it. The manufacture was later improved upon and I understand that Kent Police still use a modified version on their tunics. There will be a picture of the Met. version on a later posting. Apart from "K" division I think "T" also trialled it.

 

Dave.

.

 

•  
• Quote

Quote

Edited April 16, 2023 by Dave Wilkinson

[Mike McLellan]

Dave. I never get tired of looking at collection. Thanks. Mike

[Dave Wilkinson]

25 minutes ago, Mike McLellan said:

Dave. I never get tired of looking at collection. Thanks. Mike

Thanks Mike. I think you've seen them all.  Its a long time since you've visited. Hope you are well and keeping warm. Have you added any more interesting items to your Met. and City Police collection?

 

Dave.

[Dave Wilkinson]

To-day we took at Dockyard Division helmet plates of the Victorian & Edwardian period and also the Thames Division.

 

The Met. were responsible for policing the Royal Dockyards which were situated outside the Metropolitan Police District (MPD) from 1860 onwards and for Woolwich Dockyard from 1841 through to 1920. Rosyth (Scotland) and Pembroke (Wales) until 1926. Chatham until 1932 & Portsmouth until 1933. Dockyard policing  ceased in 1934 when the men were finally withdrawn from Devonport.

 

The Dockyard Division were issued their own distinctive helmet plates and collar badges which featured a foul anchor as can be seen. The garter plate (without star) with the "Guelphic" crown atop was a short lived helmet plate which was taken into used by the whole force. It replaced the wreath pattern but was for some reason withdrawn in favour of the gartered star.

 

The oval shaped "patch" was worn by members of the Thames Division only, on each shoulder of their refer jacket. This is believed to have been the first instance of a shoulder patch being worn on a British police uniform. See the photo of a Constable wearing it.

 

Dave.

Edited April 18, 2023 by Dave Wilkinson

[Graf]

Hi Dave,

 

Thank you for posting this interesting collection and information Great

[Dave Wilkinson]

10 hours ago, Graf said:

Hi Dave,

 

Thank you for posting this interesting collection and information Great

Thank you for your interest Graf. My pleasure.

 

Dave.

[I_♥_Police]

Fantastic  collection which must have some of the rarest examples. There cant be many private collections with examples as old as these surely?

[Dave Wilkinson]

22 minutes ago, I_♥_Police said:

Fantastic  collection which must have some of the rarest examples. There cant be many private collections with examples as old as these surely?

There is a good friend of mine who is a retired Metpol. Sgt. He has a comparable collection of Met. badges. That said, there are items that he has which I don't have and vice versa. You can never have everything no matter how hard you try. Some items will always be elusive, but the joy of collecting is to continually try to find them. I'm glad they are of interest.

 

Dave.     

[Dave Wilkinson]

To-day we are going to continue looking at the KC garter stars with the divisional letter and numbers in the centre. The Commissioner, Sir Edward Henry approved the introduction of these then new badges on the 2nd November 1906, some four years after the death of Queen Victoria. The same basic design was also worn by the Inspectorate ranks, but with a just large divisional letter in the centre. 

 

The small version of the badge with just the number in the centre were worn by women police on their pith helmets. The ones with the cipher centre were worn by senior officers of the women police, again on the pith helmet. The Victorian version in white metal is something of a mystery and I've been unable to discover who may have used it. It may have been a manufacturers sample.

 

The large versions with "M" centre and "CO" (Commissioner's Office) centre were worn by Inspectorate ranks. The term "Commissioner's Office" relates to New Scotland Yard. The large badge top centre of the second board was worn by Superintending ranks on their ceremonial helmet during the GVR period. The chrome plated star badge, bottom left, again on the second board was worn by Inspectorate ranks and the one far right, on the bottom was worn by Sergeants & Constables during the same period. The large crowned garter badges are from the belly of the horse. The small crowned garter badges on the left are cap badges worn by, initially all ranks and later by only Sergeants and Constables. Senior Officers later adopted as a cap badge, the small crowned stars around the bottom centre badge. I hope that adequately explains everything. 

 

Dave.  

Edited April 18, 2023 by Dave Wilkinson

[Dave Wilkinson]

To-day we look at badges produced for the brief reign of Edward VIII (they were never worn) and also at the GVIR period. The centre helmet badge on the top row was worn by Superintending ranks in ceremonial uniform. Far right on the top row is the helmet badge worn by Sergeants and Constables. The chrome version of this badge, first left on the bottom row was worn by Inspectorate ranks in ceremonial uniform. The badge on the far right on that row is a mystery. It has a silver plated finish and I've not been able to ascertain who wore it, if indeed it was ever worn. It may be another manufacturers sample. The wreath shaped cap badges were worn by Divisional Bands as were those cap badges which have a "lyre" in the centre.

 

The large circular badges with crowns atop were worn on the belly of the horses used by the Mounted Branch.

 

Halfway down and to the left you with see the Metpol. coat of arms with enamel inlay. This is slightly out of context and is the current issue warrant badge.  

 

Dave. 

Edited April 19, 2023 by Dave Wilkinson

[NickLangley]

The speed with which the Edward VIII insignia was produced is amazing. Or, are we just dilatory nowadays?

[Dave Wilkinson]

3 hours ago, NickLangley said:

The speed with which the Edward VIII insignia was produced is amazing. Or, are we just dilatory nowadays?

As I've said, the Met. produced the badges but there is no evidence of their being worn. Police Orders for 1936 are silent on the subject. Gloucestershire Constabulary also produced a full set of badges and actually issued theirs. Of course those who produced the Edward badges were in fact far too quick off the mark and as a result wasted a great deal of cash. Presumably the defunct stock of brand new items were eventually "binned". So, I suppose there is much to be said for not rushing.

 

Dave. 

[Dave Wilkinson]

This evening is the turn of the Metropolitan Special Constabulary (MSC). The SC not only in London, but elsewhere were most active during three specific periods in our history. The Great War (1914-1918), The General Strike (1926) and World War II (1939-1945). The Met. made great use of the MSC during all three periods.

 

At the start of the Great War several thousands of men enrolled. Most of these public spirited individuals were too old to fight. Many were indeed "gentlemen" in the true sense of the word. A goodly number were very well connected, wealthy and often the holders of honours bestowed upon them for previous service to their Country.

 

The top row of badges on the first below photo show the Great War pattern cap and lapel badges. The same badge was used with different fittings as appropriate. The colours in the Crown indicate different ranks. As you move to the right the colour of the badges changes from chocolate brown to a brighter finish and this is indicative of the passage of the years in terms of their use. This particular pattern of badge continued to be worn by the MSC (with a chrome finish) until the mid 1960's. Not surprisingly, because of the large numbers manufactured and its long span of use, the basic badge is still very common and can easily be found. Some of the variations are not so available. In the centre of the top row is the MSC long service medal and on either side the "service" stars.

 

The second row shows the more modern headdress badges. To-day's MSC do not wear MSC named cap badges. They wear the same cap badges (and helmet plates) as the regular force.

 

The third row down shows a small selection of mufti lapel badges. At least three of these are not issued items, but are badges which have been produced and purchased privately by MSC members.

 

The bottom section shows a selection of collar and epaulette badges. Some divisions of the MSC produced their own divisional specific badges, presumably at their own expense. Scotland Yard seems to have turned a benevolent "blind eye" to much of their individuality insofar as uniform was concerned. Indeed, the MSC senior officers were allowed to run their divisions very much as their own fiefdoms. Reading between the lines its almost as if the regular force were fearful of "upsetting" their volunteer colleagues.

 

Some further evidence of their individuality exists in that at least one division "G", presumably did not like the issued cap badge and decided to produce their own! The issued badge was also altered to indicate that the wearer was a member of the MT HQ Branch as can be seen. 

 

Dave.    

 

    

Edited April 20, 2023 by Dave Wilkinson

[Graf]

Hi Dave

Thank you for the very interesting information

[Dave Wilkinson]

10 hours ago, Graf said:

Hi Dave

Thank you for the very interesting information

Graf,

 

I appreciate your comment. Thank you.

 

Dave.

Edited April 21, 2023 by Dave Wilkinson

[Dave Wilkinson]

This evening we bring ourselves up to date by looking at Met. insignia which has been worn/used since the late Queen Elizabeth II came to the throne in 1952. Despite the passage of some 70 years, the number of different types of badge used by the force during that period is comparatively few in number and indeed all are (I think) represented in the photo shown below.

 

The first helmet badge of the new reign was the black star on the bottom left hand side of the photo. This was worn by Sergeants' and Constables'. Note there was no chrome version at that time. This badge was worn on days and nights. At the centre on the bottom row is the cap badge again worn by Sergeants and Constables'. Top left is the helmet badge worn by Inspectorate ranks when wearing their No:1 ceremonial uniform. Next to it and to the right is the current version of the Mounted Branch horse belly badge. Across the centre are three blue ringed star cap badges. The first one is the version worn by Inspectorate ranks. The second version is in sterling silver and was, up until about 20 years ago, worn by the ranks of Superintendent and above. The third version is the Superintendent (and above) cap badge which is in silver plated metal. The sterling silver badges were rather expensive and this is an inexpensive alternative issued as a cost saving measure. 

 

In 1965, the black helmet badge was discontinued and a chrome version, second from the right on the bottom row was issued. This was a one piece striking, worn on days and nights. The similar (but slightly smaller) chrome helmet badge to its left was a manufacturers sample which was rejected. The Inspectorate ranks continued to wear their two piece (separate EIIR centre) on ceremonial helmets. The "blue ring" helmet badge on the extreme right on the bottom row was introduced in 1980 and replaced the all chrome version. Moving back to the top row. The centre badge mounted on black leather is the silver and enamel warrant badge issued to ranks of Commander through to Commissioner. To the right is the experimental short lived breast badge. It was trialled in two divisions "K" and "TD". It was not adopted. To the right of that is the old issue warrant badge for all ranks. At the extreme top right is the helmet badge worn on a squat reinforced helmet by lightweight Velocette motor cycle riders. Staying on the right hand side is a black backed coat of arms badge which was at one time worn by motor cyclists and by the Mounted Branch. To the extreme right of this is the previous version of the motor cycle helmet badge, used on a black "Corker" helmet. The remaining items are, a "Thames" division collar badge and pair of tunic anchors. The numbered "S1" crowned chevron badge was worn on the cape strap. The inclusion of the crown indicates that the badge was for a Station Sergeant in "S" division..

 

A couple of points to note. No:- 1 ceremonial uniforms were worn for the last time on Remembrance Day 1971. After which they were discontinued. Several years ago, the force began having headdress badges made with a blue coloured soft blue plastic enamel, instead of hard fired enamel. This was allegedly done as a finance saving measure. However, after a period of wear this soft enamel tends to fall out leaving a completely chrome badge. So, in reality having the plastic colouring inserted in the first place seems rather pointless. None of these inferior examples are shown. Alas, a sign of the times!

 

The Met. have publicly said that they will not be buying or issuing any new insignia featuring the CIIIR cipher until their current stocks of headgear have been issued and depleted. So, no new badges yet. 

 

We've come to the end of this short series. I hope it has been of interest, those comments received so far suggest that it has. If forum members have any Met. badges which are not featured here, please feel free to jump in and show them.

 

  

[Graf]

Thank you again very informative again I am 'glued" to the thread

[Dave Wilkinson]

11 hours ago, Graf said:

Thank you again very informative again I am 'glued" to the thread

Thanks again Graf. I'm glad the effort was appreciated.

 

Dave.

[NickLangley]

The experimental chest shield looks as if it came out of a Christmas cracker. Did they actually use Dymo tape for the serial number?

[Dave Wilkinson]

1 hour ago, NickLangley said:

The experimental chest shield looks as if it came out of a Christmas cracker. Did they actually use Dymo tape for the serial number?

Nick,

 

Yes, they used "Dymo" tape. The badge as seen is exactly as it was issued. It is made by "Firmin" (marked on the reverse) and is in anodized aluminium. Cheap and nasty! As they were only on trial, it may well be that had they been adopted the manufacturing process may have been improved upon including the method of numbering. 

 

Dave.

Edited April 22, 2023 by Dave Wilkinson

[Dave Wilkinson]

Just to round off the information on Metpol. insignia etc. If you have been following the series you will have seen mentioned and indeed illustrated the ceremonial helmet plates which were worn by Inspectorate ranks with their No:- 1 uniforms. 

 

Below are illustrations of the actual helmet that was worn. As can be seen it differed in design and manufacture from that worn by Sergeants' and Constables'. It is covered with a much finer material. The edging is in a silk fabric. The band is wider and more finely detailed and at the reverse it is adorned with a large black ornamental "rose". The two piece Inspectors helmet badge is affixed to the front.

 

Inside the leather headband is also of a finer design. This particular example is in near "mint" condition and came complete with the Chief Inspector's No:- 1 dress tunic, braided trousers and leather sword belt. The actual swords ceased to be carried by senior officers many years ago although the belt continued to be worn as part of the uniform.

 

As already stated elsewhere, No:-1 uniforms were worn for the last time on Remembrance Day 1971 and were thereafter discontinued.

 

Dave.

[I_♥_Police]

A fantastic threat, probably one of the best on here with the amount of rare badges so thank you very much.

 

I read somewhere, although it may not be true, that during the 70s and 80s the SPG were issued with a shorter helmet of a more robust construction before the time that such helmets become common place. As in they had an early version of the reinforced helmets when everyone elses where still cork on the inside as such with just a head band. Is this something you have ever heard of Dave?

thread sorry not threat* typo

[Dave Wilkinson]

40 minutes ago, I_♥_Police said:

A fantastic threat, probably one of the best on here with the amount of rare badges so thank you very much.

 

I read somewhere, although it may not be true, that during the 70s and 80s the SPG were issued with a shorter helmet of a more robust construction before the time that such helmets become common place. As in they had an early version of the reinforced helmets when everyone elses where still cork on the inside as such with just a head band. Is this something you have ever heard of Dave?

thread sorry not threat* typo

No, that's not something that I'd heard of. That said, it may not have been widely publicised. In any event I'm sure that if a helmet of such "squatter" design had been issued I feel certain that examples would have survived and surfaced before now. 

 

I'm glad you enjoyed the thread and found it informative!

 

Regards, Dave.