Collecting militaria for a fair exchange.
74th Foot / 74th Highlanders (Later 2nd Battalion HLI) Victorian Officers Shoulder Belt Plate
£900.00
o.n.o
74th Foot 74th Highlanders (Later 2nd Battalion Highland Light Infantry). This is a mid-Victorian Officers Shoulder Belt Plate with a burnished gilt backplate, on this in silver the star of the Order of the Thistle, and on this in gilt a Victorian Crown over a strap (Highlanders) to the centre over a silver dome “74”. Below this in gilt the elephant displays superbly. Price includes delivery to a UK address. International shipping is extra.
Availability:
In stock
SKU
CX1849253017
Mid-Victorian officer's shoulder belt plates like this are not just functional but also steeped in history and tradition. The combination of silver and gilt elements, especially the incorporation of the Order of the Thistle star and the elephant motif, speaks to the rich heritage and achievements of the 74th Highlanders.
Key Highlights:
Burnished Gilt Backplate: A classic feature reflecting high craftsmanship. The gleam of the gilt would have caught the eye and conveyed the prestige of the regiment.
Order of the Thistle Star: This silver emblem symbolizes Scotland's most ancient chivalric order, tying the regiment's identity strongly to its Scottish roots.
Victorian Crown: Indicates the plate dates back to the reign of Queen Victoria (1837–1901). This crown design is distinctive and helps with precise dating.
Silver Dome "74": The regimental number proudly displayed in the center emphasizes the 74th Foot’s unique identity before the amalgamation.
Gilt Strap Inscription "Highlanders": A clear nod to the regiment’s Highland identity, reinforcing their proud Scottish tradition.
Elephant Motif: A reference to their service in India, particularly the Second Mysore War (1780–1784), where the 74th distinguished itself at battles like Assaye under Sir Arthur Wellesley (later Duke of Wellington).
Such a piece not only served as a uniform adornment but also carried the regiment’s legacy and campaigns. It must be incredibly rare and highly sought after by collectors of Victorian military memorabilia.