WW1 Canadian Great War Veterans Association lapel badge

A fine First World War Canadian Great War Veterans Association lapel badge, worn by a returned veteran of the Canadian Expeditionary Force.

The badge takes the form of a crowned shield enamelled with the Union flag in red and blue. At the centre is a white enamelled maple leaf bearing the letters G W V. The King's crown surmounts the shield.

Made in sterling silver and stamped STERLING on the reverse, together with the individual badge number 84574. The badge has its original screw back fitting with the original knurled screw nut present, which carries a partly legible maker's name.

The enamel is bright and complete, and the badge is in very good condition overall with a pleasing even patina to the silver.

The Great War Veterans Association was founded in 1917 and became Canada's largest and most influential veterans' organisation of the inter-war years. In 1925 it merged with other veterans' groups to form the Canadian Legion, which became the Royal Canadian Legion in 1960. Membership badges were individually numbered to the member.

A scarce and attractive Canadian veteran's badge.