*British, Post WWII, Royal Navy HMS Solebay Sweetheart Brooch, Gilt & Enamel*
A fine Royal Navy sweetheart brooch for HMS Solebay, measuring 5.3cm x 2.7cm. The gilt and enamel badge is mounted to a horizontal bar brooch fitting. The centre displays the ship’s crest: a Tudor rose in gold on a dark blue enamel ground, surrounded by a laurel wreath, surmounted by a naval crown above a small inscription on black enamel “Sole Bay”. The name “H.M.S. Sole Bay” is shown in black enamel scrollwork beneath. The reverse is plain gilt with a simple pin fitting.
Historical Note: HMS Solebay (R70) was a Battle-class destroyer of the Royal Navy, launched in 1944 and commissioned in 1945. She saw service as the leader of the 5th Destroyer Flotilla, operating in home waters and the Mediterranean during the post-war period, and later acted as a training ship. Sweetheart brooches such as this were popular keepsakes during the war, worn by wives, fiancées, and sweethearts of serving sailors to show their connection to the ship.
*Condition* The brooch retains much of its original gilt and enamel detail, though there is some minor age-related tarnishing, spotting, and wear to the metalwork. Enamel remains intact with strong colour. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
