*British, HM Prison Service Cap Badge, EIIR Queen’s Crown, J.R. Gaunt Birmingham, Staybrite Enamel*
An original British HM Prison Service cap badge dating to the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. This example features the EIIR royal cypher (Elizabeth II Regina) within a circular blue enamel ring inscribed “HM PRISON SERVICE.” The badge is surmounted by the St Edward’s Crown, indicating issue during the period 1952–2022.
The design follows the traditional British service badge pattern with a radiating starburst backing plate and enamel title band surrounding the royal cypher. Badges of this type were worn by Prison Officers on the peaked caps of their uniform.
The reverse retains its original vertical brooch-style fastening, rather than the more common cap lugs, suggesting it was either produced for wear as a tunic or civilian badge or professionally converted from a cap badge for wear on civilian clothing.
The reverse bar is maker marked “J.R. GAUNT B’HAM,” for the well-known Birmingham badge manufacturer J. R. Gaunt & Son Ltd, one of Britain’s principal producers of military and official insignia throughout the 20th century.
Approx. Measurements – Width: 4.5 cm. Height: 5 cm.
History Note:
The HM Prison Service was the government agency responsible for the administration of prisons in England and Wales prior to later restructuring into HM Prison Service and subsequently HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS).
Uniform insignia for Prison Officers followed the style of British police and military cap badges, incorporating the royal cypher of the reigning monarch. During the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, badges carried the EIIR cypher beneath the St Edward’s Crown, distinguishing them from earlier examples of the George VI period (GRI).
Badges produced by J.R. Gaunt of Birmingham are particularly common in official British uniform insignia, as the firm supplied badges and regalia to the armed forces, police, prison service, and numerous government departments throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
*Condition*
Good overall condition. The metal retains a bright finish with light surface wear consistent with age and handling. The blue enamel title ring remains intact with only minor signs of wear visible under close inspection. The reverse brooch fitting is secure and functional. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
