Summary

Alternative Name(s): Button, Pin

World War I-era pressed tin fundraising badge - 'British Red Cross'. The badge features a red cross symbol next to a British Union Jack flag on a pole. Beneath the flag is a scroll with the text 'British Red Cross' against a gold background.

The Australian War Memorial website records that this fundraising badge was produced to promote and support the work of the British Red Cross. Such badges were sold in trams, buses, at railways stations and at rallies to raise money for the stated cause. This example was produced in South Australia from 1916 and resulted in the raising of 256,465 pounds; other states appear not to have raised money specifically for the British Red Cross (although the Serbian, Italian and Belgian Societies of the Red Cross were often the subjectseparate appeals in these states) and instead raised appeals under the general banner of the Red Cross Society.

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 a red cross symbol next to a British Union Jack flag on a pole. Beneath the flag is a scroll with inscription against a gold background. The back of the badge is a dull tin, with mild rust. A bent nail has been utilised as the pin and is attached through holes in the back of the badge.

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