In the British Army the highest non-comissioned rank is Warrant Officer Class I or WOI. At the rank of WOI there is entitlement to wear the same quality and pattern uniforms as comissioned officers. This includes the cap badge which in most cases is a different material and quality to the basic cap badge worn by ORs (enlisted ranks).
The badge shown here is perhaps an ideal example of anomalies encountered in this circumstance.
A common difference between ORs and Officers cap badges aside from quality is that ORs typically have sliders or shanks (not all, some do have lugs but go with me here ) whilst officer badges have lugs (often longer than the basic type).
The anomaly with RMP is that NoI Dress uniform is issued to all ranks whereas in most units it is only issued when a unit is engaged / deployed on particular ceremonial duties then withdrawn later. Whilst RMP WOI will wear the khaki Service Dress cap as appropriate, in NoI dress they continue to wear the ORs NoI Dress peaked (visor) cap which is also worn in No2 and which WOI wear in the officer pattern Service Dress that has replaced their previous No2 Dress.
Because the NoI Dress cap is made to take a slider rather than lugs an officer pattern badge but with a slider is required.
Hence the badge below which is scarce in any version of cypher and crown.
It is much heavier than either the standard staybrite cap badge or older brass badges. It is heavily silver plated brass and this is indicated by this maker with the 'P' stamp on the slider. An 'S' stamp indicates Sterling silver which I believe is used as stamping with assaye marks which would need to be on the badge itself not the slider is problematic on this badge. The obverse has a matte finish with burnished highlights and pictures do not show the way it tends to sparkle in sunlight. It needs no polishing and all that is required is a rub with a soft cloth to make the highlights shine out.
This one is a post 1946 George VI example but the current E II R version is quite similar.
As usual, all comments are appreciated.
Regards
Mark
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