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Hello, I am looking to buy the Unit insignia and a Captain's Rank Insignia from the South African Cape Mounted Riflemen (1878–1913). If any one knows where I could source these it would be appreciated.

I have also tried to find what a Captains Rank from the Cape Mounted Riflemen (1878–1913) would actually look like without any luck. I have attached what I believe is the Unit insignia / patch.

johncarnell wrote: I have also tried to find what a Captains Rank from the Cape Mounted Riflemen (1878–1913) would actually look like without any luck. I have attached what I believe is the Unit insignia / patch.

The CMR wore British Army rank insignia, which changed a couple of times between 1878 and 1913. In 1878, a captain wore a crown and a 'pip' on each side of his upright collar (crown nearest the front). From 1881, he wore two pips on each shoulder. From 1902, he wore three pips on each shoulder.

The shield-shaped patch showing the beetle inside the letter D has come into circulation on the internet in the past few years, but I don't know if it was actually worn by the regiment. It may have been a blazer badge, or an informal device (possibly used by 'D' Squadron?), but IMHO it's very unlikely that it would have been approved for wearing on uniform. I am, of course, willing to be corrected.

Thankyou Arthur. So I would be looking for the 2x Pip ensignia. You wouldn't have a photo of what I'd be looking to buy would you Arthur?

Hello John

This is insignia up to 1870 .



Regards

Thanks for that Arthur, but my Great Grandfather was a Captain post 1881 and pre 1902 so on your advice I guess he would have had 2 pips on his shoulders.

johncarnell wrote: Thanks for that Arthur, but my Great Grandfather was a Captain post 1881 and pre 1902 so on your advice I guess he would have had 2 pips on his shoulders.

That's correct, John.