Summary

Alternative Name(s): Button, Pin

World War I-era pressed tin fundraising badge - 'Our Sailors Day'. The badge features the Royal Navy ensign against a dark blue background, encircled by a white lifesaving ring.

The Australian War Memorial website records that this fundraising badge was produced to celebrate Our Sailor's Day. Such badges were sold in trams, buses, at railways stations and at rallies to raise money for the stated cause. This example is associated with celebrations organised by the Commonwealth Button Fund to support Australia's naval personnel in 1917.

One of 24 fundraising badges attached to a black velvet ribbon. Purchased and collected by the donor's great-grandmother, Mrs Lillie Mary Holinger, in Melbourne (probably Canterbury).

Badges were worn or displayed on ribbons during and after World War I, commemorating involvement in the war effort and expressing patriotism. They were generally made to raise funds for particular causes, including comforts and medical aid for those serving overseas; assisting widows and children of deceased soldiers; and assisting with the purchase of aids and treatment for soldiers who returned with disabilities.

Physical Description

Circular pressed tin badge featuring the Royal Navy ensign against a dark blue background. The flag is encircled by a white lifesaver ring, on which is written in black capitalised inscription A rope is wrapped around the lifesaver ring at the bottom. Tha paper that covers the tin badge has been damaged by rust. The back of the badge is a dull tin with minor rust. A bent nail has been utilised as the pin and is attached through a hole in the back of the badge.

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