Cap Badge for the Commissioners of Irish Lights, Irish Lighthouse Authority.

Commissioners of Irish Lights (CIL) badge used with their uniform caps. This badge design dates from 1867. The badge in in very good condition with both lugs intact.

The CIL badges were manufactured from die-stamped brass using a two die set (male and female). Two copper lugs are affixed to the back through which a split-pin was passed to fasten it onto the cap.

The CIL crest forms the centre of the badge – a lighthouse and lighthouse ship in the background on a seascape, surrounded by a garter belt containing the words IRISH LIGHTS. The outer part of the badge is formed by a wreath of shamrocks, surmounted by the Royal Victorian crown. There is no maker’s name or marks. I am unsure of the age of this badge as the same design continued in use into the 20th century.

The badge size is 55mm high x 46mm across.