Frederick H. Burgess Agricultural Engineers Ltd Food Production on war service badge

A rare original Second World War period 'Frederick H. Burgess Agricultural Engineers Ltd identification badge'. These were issued to essential war workers who were exempt from conscription, in the form of a large gilt black enamel title surround, wheatsheaf emblem bearing the initials 'B.A.E' on green enamel ground, with an additional ribbon scroll below 'FOOD PRODUCTION'; the reverse impressed with maker's details 'Thomas Fattorini Ltd Regent St Birmingham' and official issue number '508'. Very good condition, complete with original buttonhole lapel fitting, no damage to the enamel, a few minor scratches only, gilt finish remains bright. Height 30mm. Founded in 1900 Frederick H. Burgess Agricultural Engineers, Stafford Street, Eccleshall, with branches in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Wolverhampton and Newport, became one of the largest distributors of tractors and agricultural machinery in Britain.