British, c.1968–1974, Manchester & Salford Police Cap Badge, Queen’s Crown, 2 Lugs, Enamel
£25.00
Scarce Queen’s Crown cap badge of the Manchester & Salford Police (1968–1974), a short-lived force preceding the formation of Greater Manchester Police.
*British, c.1968–1974, Manchester & Salford Police Cap Badge, Queen’s Crown, 2 Lugs, Enamel*
An original British police cap badge of the Manchester & Salford Police, produced during the short existence of this force between 1968 and 1974. The badge is struck in white metal with blue enamel detailing and retains its original two lug fittings to the reverse for attachment to a police helmet or cap.
The design consists of an eight-pointed star surmounted by the St. Edward’s Crown (Queen’s Crown), indicating issue during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Around the centre is a blue enamel circlet reading “MANCHESTER & SALFORD POLICE”, enclosing a shield bearing the arms of the City of Manchester, featuring bees in the quarters representing the city’s historic industry and work ethic.
Badges of this force are comparatively scarce due to the very short operational lifespan of the Manchester & Salford Police, making them desirable items for collectors of British police insignia and regional policing history.
Approx. Measurements – Height: 5.1 cm. Width: 4.1 cm.
History Note:
The Manchester & Salford Police was created on 1 April 1968 following the amalgamation of the Manchester City Police and Salford City Police forces. The new combined force served the urban area around Manchester during a period of reorganisation in British policing.
Its existence was brief. Under the Local Government Act 1972, further restructuring led to the creation of the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) on 1 April 1974, absorbing Manchester & Salford Police along with parts of Lancashire, Cheshire and West Yorkshire forces. As a result, insignia bearing the Manchester & Salford title were produced for only a six-year period, contributing to their collectability today.
*Condition*
Good overall condition with bright white metal finish and clear blue enamel to the title band. Minor light surface marks consistent with age and service use. The reverse retains both original mounting lugs intact. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
