Lot 446

Description

Victoria Police, Plain Clothes identification medallion, c.1883-1901, in bronze (47mm), obv. the Royal cypher VR as a monogram surrounded by a circular title band with the words 'Victorian Police'; rev. a laurel wreath surrounding the numeral '2' outline impressed in centre, the letter 'T' impressed at the top edge to signify where to drill the hole for attaching ring. This piece was originally silver or nickel plated, however this has worn off with the passage of time so now shows the bronze base metal. An important piece of Police memorabilia. Very fine and extremely rare.

Identification medallions were issued to men serving in plain clothes including the Criminal Investigation Branch of the Victorian Police Force during the reign of Queen Victotia. The Detective Branch became the Criminal Investigiation Branch c.1883 after the 'Longmore' Royal Commission on the Victorian Police Force. This is specimen No.2 reputedly issued to and used by the Inspecting Superintendent of the Victorian Police. This rank was at one time held by John Sadlier the author of the book 'Recollections of a Victorian Police Officer', served from 1/12/1852 to 31/12/1896.