British Union of Fascists

[StefanM]

Would appreciate thoughts on the authenticity of this British Union of Fascists pin-back badge? These are unfamiliar territory for me so any information will be gratefully received.

[DrPMC]

This isn't a British Union of Fascists (1932-1940) badge but one from an earlier group from the 1920s, which was initially known as the British Fascisti and later as the British Fascists. The heyday for the British Fascists was in the 20s, around the time of the General Strike in 1926. Although Fascist in name they are probably best seen as an unofficial auxiliary of the Conservative Party, whose meetings they sometimes stewarded.

The badge itself is of the third type, the original pattern having had a kings crown at the top, but they were later forbidden to use this and replaced it with the rose insignia. The Christian cross was added to the centre, on the third type, as seen here. These badges are all numbered, presumably consecutively. The only reference source on these items that I know of is a pamphlet produced by the militaria dealer Jamie Cross, which I have referred to in composing this post.

I believe that copies have been made, but I am afraid that I do not know how they can be distinguished. These badges seem to turn up quite often on ebay which leads me to suspect that there may be fakes out there. However, presumably to fake numbered badges of this sort it would be necessary to number them before they were plated and enameled and I do wonder if that would be a realistic proposition.

[WarCollector2019]

I completely agree with the above comment; I have seen dozens of these on eBay in recent months so I would also steer clear as I have no idea how to spot a real from a fake.

Maybe you could try contacting Jamie Cross as he is the largest seller and buyer of British Fascist related items that I know of.

Thank you, Glen.

[DrPMC]

Another source of quality British Fascist items is Mons Military Antiques (Mons Military Antiques). I note that the vendor there has recently sold a variant of one of these badges with the comment 'very good copies / reproductions [...] have now flooded the market.'

Although I seldom buy items like this myself (empty pockets!) I believe that Mons Military Antiques has a reputation for selling honest items. The "archive" section (Mons Military Antiques) has some very rare Fascist items previously sold, besides lots of other quality goods.

[StefanM]

Thanks chaps, both for the historical information and your very helpful insights

[reneblacky]

Not in my area but I do have this newspaper

[Scout]

Interesting pin.

Interesting paper as well. I have a few war time newspapers as well (one front page reads 'Combat in Cologne' - March 6. '45). They are so fragile, I had them framed.

[StefanM]

Took an inexpensive risk and just picked up this "Gaunt" marked version...





I wondered what the "REGISTRATION APPLIED FOR" meant?

I assume some sort of registered ® design trademark application?

When I have a bit more time I'll look through the UK trademark library to see if such a design was granted UK ® trademark status.

From the information kindly supplied by DrPMC this is possibly the second version as there is no Cross in the center of the rose.

[DrPMC]

Referring again to Jamie Cross' publication, 4thSkorpion's badge is of the second pattern, which were all made by Gaunts. The second types appear with and without 'registration applied for'. I'm a little suspicious that this one does not have a number stamped on, as all the examples referred to by Cross are stamped. I believe the number was significant as it was recorded when the badge was issued to a member. Cross also adds that 'for the first and second types you will usually find a horizontal needle pin, high quality hinge and hook soldered onto them' I don't know whether this describes what you have or not. I see that badges of this exact type (copies) are available at British Fascists enameled lapel membership badge. 2nd issue.. THIRDREICHBADGES.COM from The Regalia Specialist German WW2 Military Badges Insignia and Awards

I've attached a couple of pics relating to the British Fascists - the woman is Rotha Litorn Orman, their founder.

I have a few British Union of Fascist items - a couple of badges, an armband and various pamphlets and paper items. If there is any interest I can photograph them.

[StefanM]

I would very much like to see them

Do you per have first issue badge with Kings crown or a photo source?