A genuine Second World War era British Home Front lapel badge for the Air Raid Precautions (ARP) service. The badge is constructed from sterling silver and features a Tudor Crown above a shield-shaped plate with a textured stippled background. The initials A.R.P are embossed in relief with dots between each character. This specific pattern was designed by the artist and typographer Eric Gill in 1938. The reverse side is fitted with a crescent-shaped buttonhole fastener intended for attachment to civilian coats or uniforms. The base of the reverse displays a full set of British hallmarks including the maker mark J.C, the lion passant indicating .925 silver purity, the leopard head for the London Assay Office, and the lowercase date letter c corresponding to the year 1938.
Condition report:
The badge is in very good original condition, exhibiting a deep natural patina consistent with age and long-term storage. All embossed details, including the crown and lettering, remain crisp and well-defined. The mounting clip is present, well-secured, and remains in working order.
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