*British, WWII era, Royal Navy Sweetheart Brooch, HMS Scarborough, Enamel & Gilt*
A WWII-era Royal Navy sweetheart brooch for HMS Scarborough, measuring approximately 3.9cm in diameter. The brooch is cast in gilt metal in the form of a ship’s wheel, with the ship’s enamelled crest at centre. The badge depicts the Scarborough arms above stylised blue and white waves, with the motto “Tutus in Portis” (“Safe in Harbour”) and the name Scarborough in enamel above, surmounted by the Naval Crown.
Historical Note: HMS Scarborough (L25) was a Shoreham-class sloop launched in 1930. During the Second World War she was heavily engaged in Atlantic convoy escort duties, protecting merchant vessels against U-boat and Luftwaffe attack. Like many sloops of her class, she served tirelessly in the long struggle to keep Britain’s supply lines open during the Battle of the Atlantic.
These sweetheart brooches were keepsakes given to wives, fiancées and family members of serving sailors, worn proudly on the home front during the war as a symbol of loyalty and remembrance.
*Condition* The brooch retains much of its original gilt finish with good enamel detail. Light age wear is visible to the reverse with some expected green patination to the metal, but overall it remains a fine example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
