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Original British General Post Office (GPO) postman’s cap badge, dating approximately circa 1920–1937, measuring approximately 2" x 2.25".
This large oval postal uniform badge features a detailed King’s Crown at the top, surrounded by a raised wreath design. The upper portion is marked:
GPO
The center has a blue enamel band with the individually applied identification number:
89
and the letter:
S
below.
Badges of this type were used as part of the uniform worn by British General Post Office postal employees during the early 20th century. The numbered center helped identify the individual employee, while the letter designation likely related to an office, district, area, or internal postal designation.
The General Post Office was the government department responsible for Britain’s postal system and, for much of its history, also handled major communications services. By the early 20th century, GPO uniforms and identification badges were an important part of the professional appearance and identification of postal workers.
The crown, wreath, GPO lettering, numbered enamel panel, and overall construction are characteristic of British government-service insignia from this period.
The 89 appears to be the individual postman’s identification number. The exact meaning of the S designation has not been independently confirmed, so no specific postal district or office is being claimed.
The reverse retains the older pin-style fastening hardware shown in the photos. No maker name or additional markings were found.
Condition:
Pre-owned antique condition with considerable age and service wear.
The metal surface shows oxidation, darkening, scratches, scuffs, rubbing, discoloration, and general finish wear. The blue enamel center shows small marks, scratches, and areas of age-related wear.
The raised GPO lettering, crown, wreath, number 89, and S designation remain clearly visible and readable.
The reverse shows additional oxidation, discoloration, scratches, and age-related surface wear. Fastening hardware remains present as shown.
Metal composition has not been tested, so no specific metal content is being claimed.
This is an attractive piece of British postal history and would fit well in a collection of GPO memorabilia, Royal Mail history, postal uniforms, occupational badges, British government insignia, or early 20th-century service collectibles.
I list a large volume of older, vintage, collectible, and pre-owned items, so there may occasionally be a small detail, marking, manufacturer, or condition issue that is not specifically mentioned in the written description. Please use the photos as the primary reference for condition, markings, construction, completeness, and exactly what is included.
Important Note to Buyers: Please carefully examine all high-resolution photos, as they are considered part of the description and show the exact item you will receive.
