Royal Fusiliers Officers Early Victorian Shoulder Belt Plate

This early Victorian shoulder belt plate of the Royal Fusiliers (7th Regiment of Foot) is a distinctive and highly collectible piece of British military insignia from the pre-1855 period. This particular example is catalogued in Major Robert Parkyn’s "Shoulder-Belt Plates and Buttons" as No. 114.

Key Features of the Plate (Parkyn 114):

Regiment: Royal Fusiliers (7th Regiment of Foot)

Date: Early Victorian period, circa 1837–1855

Material: Typically gilt brass or gilt copper alloy

Central motif: A large raised Tudor Rose in high relief — this is the centerpiece of the design and represents the regiment's long-standing association with the crown.

Enamel details: Blue enamel background behind the motto and regiment title. Red enamel behind the Victorian Crown at the top — a distinctive and eye-catching feature.

Inscription: Around the rose, usually in a circlet, is the regiment's title: “Royal Fusiliers” or “7th Royal Fusiliers”, depending on the version.

Mounting: Three lugs to the reverse for attachment to the shoulder belt.

Intact blue and red enamel, which is rare — these enamels often flake or degrade over time.

Superb condition,  strong gilding, and no repairs or enamel loss — very desirable among collectors.

Historical Context:
Before the widespread reforms of the British Army in the mid-19th century (especially the Cardwell Reforms), officers wore elaborately decorated shoulder belt plates as both identification and ornamentation. The Royal Fusiliers, with their long and distinguished service, were granted special embellishments, including the Tudor Rose — a symbol of royal favor.

This particular pattern was worn until about 1855, after which more simplified equipment began to be issued.