WW1 Dover Town Council ( Kent ) / Red Cross War Fund Raising Badge Pin Brooch

Scarce bronze badge with pin to reverse, slight twist to C clasp but still functional. Three shields within circlet stating "Pro Patria 1915 - Ville et Portus Dovor". Good condition.

In July 1915 with the first anniversary of Britain’s entry into the war approaching, the Dover town council decided the event should be commemorated by asking the town's folk to perform a specific act of “self-sacrifice” by donating some gold or silver object. The collection would then be sold and the proceeds donated to the Red Cross in the name of the King, to help wounded soldiers. In return those who gave items would later receive “a small bronze brooch, ring or pendant, or souvenir, bearing the arms of Dover, the date 1915, the motto “Pro Patria””. It was said, “that a little souvenir of the War like that would afterwards be extremely valuable and appreciated more than the articles exchanged for it” (Dover Express 30 July 1915).

In the event 6,835 objects were donated which realised £427 10s 10d at a London auction in November. Together with cash donations and fund raising events the “Dover’s Gift to the King” fund raised at least £883. The bronze badges, or brooches as they were described, and pendants were distributed early in 1916.

Often mistakenly described as either a VTC or special constable item.

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Code: 59954