c1943-45 WW2 British Plastic King’s Commendation for Brave Conduct Economy Pin Badge

cWWII, a scarce original wartime issue, single, King’s Commendation for Brave Conduct plastic (sometimes incorrectly named 'Bakerlite') economy issue badge. In the form of a Crowned oval laurel wreath; within the wreath a tablet inscribed 'For Brave Conduct' superimposed on an upright sword all on a red plastic ground, the reverse impressed in relief with Registration Number 'R.D.839943 PAT. APP. FOR'. In good overall condition, complete with original pin fittings, colour remains good, Circa 3.8cms tall. VGC.



The Commendation for Brave Conduct was established in 1939 at the beginning of World War II. No Royal Warrant or other public statement was issued which specified the title, precedence and eligibility of the award, suggesting it was a prompt wartime solution to a gap in the awards available to reward gallantry by non-combatants, particularly those involved in Civil Defence and the Merchant Navy. Awards were published in the London Gazette,1 with most entries referring to a 'Commendation for brave conduct', or simply 'Commendation'. This was not formally described as the 'King's Commendation for Brave Conduct' until September 1945.2 Commendations could be made posthumously, enabling official recognition of bravery in all circumstances, since other gallantry awards, except for the Victoria Cross and the George Cross, could not be awarded posthumously.1

After 1945, the King's Commendation for Brave Conduct continued to be the lowest level of bravery award in the British honours system, alongside a mention in despatches, in rewarding bravery by civilians and members of the armed forces in non-frontline circumstances, where the action did not merit the award of another award for gallantry.

Code: 1486