New Zealand Soldiers Club London 1916 - 1919 silver badge

A rare original 'NZ Soldiers Club London 1916 1919 pin badge'; large balloon shaped example, bearing raised blue enamel title and dates within an embossed 'Fern leaf ' surround; the reverse impressed with Birmingham silver hallmarks for 1918 and maker's details 'HCF LD' (H C Freeman Ltd, Hatton Garden, London). Very good condition, complete with original pin fittings, no damage to the enamel. Height 43mm. The 'New Zealand Soldiers Club, Russell Square London' provided food and accommodation for New Zealand soldiers on leave during World War I. From 1916 to 1919 the club housed, clothed and fed over 100,000 soldiers. The club is described by John (Jack) Daniels, a New Zealand soldier writing to his family in the latter years of the Great War, as having 'Fine billiard-room, reading and writing rooms, and every convenience and comfort. Beds for 200 men. Canteen for light refreshments open day and night. Run by N.Z. ladies.