March 15-17, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/16/2022
Lot consists of: (A) Excellent example of a World War I souvenir belt. These belts have a mixed history, sometimes being referred to as "hate belts" and "grave digger belts" due to various ideas as to why the belts were created. Soldiers would often take various buttons, pins, and other insignia from soldiers they killed, captured, buried, or simply became acquainted with in order to keep mementos as a remembrance of the War. This example is constructed of thick wool which was most likely crafted from a Highlanders uniform kilt. The belt is very appealing and features a variety of insignia including the Machine Gun Corps, Royal Tank Corps, and various other badges from different Canadian and British regiments and corps. CONDITION: The wool remains intact and sturdy with no blemishes except for holes which represent badges that were removed. The badges present well with some exhibiting slight tarnishing. Overall very good. (B) Another excellent example of a WWI souvenir belt. Like the first example, this belt also exhibits a variety of badges from various British and Canadian regiments and corps also including the Machine Gun Corps. The insignia was assembled on a British stable belt that is marked "The Universal" on the leather. CONDITION: The belt exhibits fraying in some areas but remains quite presentable and sturdy. The badges present well with some exhibiting slight tarnishing. Overall very good. This is a very nice set of 2 attractive WWI souvenir belts. JLD
Item Dimensions: 12" x 12"