The 5th RIL has an ancient lineage, dating back to 1689. They served as a lancer regiment from 1861-1920, being amalgamated with the 16th Lancers in 1922 on the partition of Ireland. In the 18th century they served as dragoons (ie mounted infantry) in the policing of Ireland.
The slider dates it as being nearer the Great War than the Victorian period; the earlier examples would have had lugs on the reverse.
The condition is excellent for its age, one of the lance points being slightly bent. There is a blow hole on the reverse of one of the pennants (sadly not visible in my photo, which is slighlty out of focus). This is always a good indication of a period badge of bi-metal construction, as blow holes were usually necessary to allow the hot air from the brazing technique to escape, otherwise the badge would be distorted through heat. This was no longer necessary with badges from the WW2 era onwards as silver soldering was used increasingly to replace brazing.
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Militaria : Badges : British : 20th Century]
|
![online Militaria dealer - Antique-Militaria [UK]](/images/antique-militaria.jpg)
Antique Militaria Home
Site map
Historic comments
MAGNIFY