The helmet was introduced into the British infantry in 1878 and a new badge had to be designed for each regiment. The officers’ badges all had the basic gilt star and laurel wreath but the Royal Scots were distinguished in having this blue enamel central device with St Andrew in silver, and the collar (without pendant) finely wrought in gilt metal. The gilt scroll on top having THE ROYAL SCOTS and the lower gilt scroll having the motto. There is no Sphinx on this badge. In 1881 the regiment adopted Scottish uniform and the badge was changed. This scarce example was auctioned by Bosleys in December 2005. It was also the front cover illustration for ‘Head-Dress Badges of the British Army’ by Hugh King and Arthur L Kipling.
