West Sussex Constabulary cap badge for inspectors and chief inspectors 1952 - 1967
Name/Title
West Sussex Constabulary cap badge for inspectors and chief inspectors 1952-1967
Entry/Object ID
255
Description
Chrome plated star shaped Queen's Crown cap badge, marked "West Sussex Constabulary" with blue enamel ring and voided (cut away) West Sussex coat of arms centre. Has lug fitting to rear. No maker's marks.
Use
For use on caps for inspectors and chief inspectors
Context
It was common practice in the past for officer's of the rank of Inspector and above to have more ornate cap badges than those of constables and sergeants. Indeed whilst some modern UK police forces have adopted the same cap badge for for all ranks, most still issue separate badges for inspectors and above.
In many forces, including West Sussex Constabulary, up until the 1960's it was normal to see chrome badges such as this issued to inspectors and chief inspectors, and silver or silver plated versions issued to Superintendents and above. In some cases officer's of Chief Officer rank had even more elaborate cap badges.
This badge with a Queen's or St. Edward's Crown was used for inspectors and chief inspectors in West Sussex Constabulary between 1952 and 1967. More senior officers had the same style of badge either in silver or silver plate.
