WW1 Bullion wound stripe on Barathea material, removed from uniform.

WW1 Bullion wound stripe on Barathea material, removed from uniform. Lovely example.

Description

A fine original World War I wound stripe, beautifully hand-embroidered in gold bullion wire on khaki Barathea wool backing. This example has been carefully removed from a uniform, showing original stitching marks and light service wear.

Background

The wound stripe was introduced in July 1916 to recognise soldiers wounded in action. It was worn on the left forearm, just above the cuff, and each subsequent wound entitled the soldier to an additional stripe. Early issues were produced in brass, but officers often had privately tailored bullion versions made, such as this fine example.

Wound stripes became a visible and respected symbol of sacrifice and service among men of the British and Commonwealth forces during the Great War.