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The variation in the quality and thickness of the brass used for these badges is noteworthy, as is the vast array of fixing loops and pins. It seems that some of the flimsiest examples would have been quite unsuitable for service wear, and I have wondered whether these might have been made as patriotic emblems rather than military badges. I have an example (Owen #2006) that has been painted and attached to a vyfkleur sash, suggesting this could well have been the case. However, the sash and badge could equally well have been put together by a returning British soldier.

MC Heunis believes the differing qualities could simply have been down to supplier:

I am not sure about the ZAR, but I know for a fact the OVS ordered badges and die-stamp dies for the badges from Germany. The quality of badges would therefore have differed depending on who made them (German supplier or locally) and with what thickness/quality plate. This may also explain the vast variety of fixing lugs and pins. As with any die, the quality would have gotten worse as the die(s) wore out.

Invoices for the OVS dies, which were supplied by C.F. Wulfert of Berlin, have survived. One, dated 1 March 1890, lists “1 Stahlstempel zu den Mützenabzeichen” [1 Steel die for cap insignia], and a second, dated 12 October 1890, “1 Stahlstempel zum Wappen” [1 Steel die for coat of arms badge].




















A few of the various types of fixings found on the backs of O.V. Artillerie badges (all, apart from top right, Owen #2062). The bottom left example has lost its lower loop (arrowed). It is not entirely clear what the hook-and-loop fastenings were for. It seems they were probably intended for use with slouch hats, the hook holding the brim up by attaching it to the crown, though I am unaware of any photographs of O.V.S. badges being used in this way.










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This photograph of Luitenant Otto Augenstein, OVSAC, shows a badge similar to Owen #2062 (see above) being worn on a slouch hat. The position of the badge, in the middle of the upturned brim, indicates this is of the two-lug variety. A hook-and-loop badge would need to be on the top edge to enable attachment to the crown.



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