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Royal Australian Navy sweetheart badge

Datelate 19th century

Object number00018324

NameBadge

MediumAlloy, enamel

DimensionsOverall: 25 x 23 mm, 0.005 kg
Display Dimensions: 27 x 22 mm

ClassificationsCommemorative artefacts

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionA Royal Australian Navay sweetheart badge featuring an enamelled crown and anchor.HistorySweetheart brooches or badges was worn by female relatives of those serving in the Australian armed forces. Relatives or wives and girlfriends could wear these small, personal tokens as a reminder of those still serving, or of lives lost. Many brooches were given as gifts by servicemen but some were bought by the women left at home. While many sweetheart brooches were handmade by resourceful sailors from materials close at hand, many were mass manufactured, reflecting a new market for sweetheart souvenirs as a result of the mass displacement of service men and women across the globe. Brooches were often sent home to loved ones to serve as a reminder of them while away at war. Powerful symbols of separation, heart-ache and home sickness this sweetheart booch offers an insight into the objects produced in the hopes of keeping memories and relationships alive in the face of short-term or permanent seperation. SignificanceSweetheart badges from the Armed Forces for wives, girlfriends and mothers are common in the Army and Air Force but not so prevalent in the Royal Australian Navy. These badges represent a way in which Navy could have a tangible connection with civilians - on special days such as Trafalgar Day and Navy League Day and through brooches worn by loved ones.