BACKGROUND: Cap badges were usually made of white metal, brass, copper or bi-metal. Most commonly brass and white metal were used. With the shortage of ferrous metal towards the end of 1940, an alternative material was needed for the manufacture of cap badges. Rolled brass and bakelite were among the materials tested but it was cellulose acetate that was finally selected, as it was a modern plastic that could be used with injection molding equipment. The first cellulose acetate badges were produced in December of 1941and were limited to the corp. level, with the regimental level badges going into production in June of 1942. Since the average soldier preferred the metal badges over the plastic and they were produced for a short period of time, plastic cap badges can be fairly rare.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: An die struck, metal alloy cap badge, in the shape of a French horn with cord with the initials "DLI" to the center surmounted by a King’s crown. To the hollow reverse is a single tang. The badge shows typical usage and wear.

GRADE***3/4                             PRICE $22.00