K/C Royal Australia Regiment (RAR) “skippy” gilt hat/cap badge

Royal Australian Regiment King's crown hat badge by Swann & Hudson, c. 1949-53

A superb King's crown hat badge of the Royal Australian Regiment, in exceptional, near mint condition.

The design shows a kangaroo standing before crossed rifles, within a wreath of wattle, surmounted by the King's (Tudor) crown. Beneath is the motto "Duty First" on a scroll, with "Royal Australian Regiment" on the boomerang base. Gilded brass, with both lugs intact. Maker marked to the reverse: Swann & Hudson, Frankston, Vic.

The RAR badge was designed in 1949 by Sgt E.J. O'Sullivan of 1 RAR, shortly after King George VI granted the "Royal" prefix to the Australian Regiment. The King's crown version is rarely encountered, as the Queen's crown pattern soon replaced it following the accession of Elizabeth II. 

The gilding is crisp and bright, the detail sharp throughout, and the reverse clean with no repairs. This is the finest example of this badge we have handled.

A rare and genuine piece of early Royal Australian Regiment history.