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92nd Foot (The Gordon Highlanders) Victorian Officers Shoulder Belt Plate pre-1881
£415.00
This 92nd Foot The Gordon Highlanders Victorian Officers Shoulder Belt Plate pre 1881 has a burnished gilt backplate. On this in silver the star of the order of the thistle, and to the centre a small thistle spray, the tiger and sphinx representing service in India and Egypt, and to the centre the numerals XC11 (92). Price includes worldwide delivery.
Availability:
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SKU
CX312014218
The 92nd Regiment of Foot, known as the Gordon Highlanders, utilized distinctive shoulder belt plates during the Victorian era, prior to their amalgamation in 1881. These plates were integral components of an officer's uniform, serving both functional and ceremonial purposes.
The shoulder belt plate typically measured approximately 3¾ inches in height and 3 inches in width. The design featured a burnished gilt (gold-plated) rectangular base adorned with a silver-plated St. Andrew's Cross. At the center of the cross, the regimental number "XCII" (92 in Roman numerals) was prominently displayed, encircled by a wreath of thistles — a symbol of Scotland.
Historical Context:
The 92nd Regiment of Foot was renowned for its valor and played a significant role in British military history. In 1881, as part of the Childers Reforms, the regiment was amalgamated with the 75th (Stirlingshire) Regiment of Foot to form the Gordon Highlanders. Consequently, the pre-1881 shoulder belt plates are of particular historical interest, representing the regiment's identity prior to this merger.