Sergeant Major's Tunic c1861

The four chevrons on the right sleeve have the regimental embroidered arm badge above and an embroidered Victorian crown above that. These were the rank badges of the Regimental and Troop Sergeant Majors of the 14th Hussars. A Horse Guards circular memo of 22 May 1850 ordered this for Hussar RSMs and TSMs. After 1851 the four chevrons started to be worn on the right forearm point upwards. Perhaps the 14th took longer to make the change. This is definitely a hussar tunic as it has the six rows of gold cord across the front, and the regiment converted to hussars in 1861.
This photo was published in Bosleys Military Auction catalogue and described thus: '14th Hussars Victorian Sergeant Major's tunic. A scarce tunic, the right sleeve bearing large bullion crown, large bullion and padded silk oval arm badge and four large chevrons. The tunic is of dark blue melton cloth with gimp cord knot decoration to each cuff and the skirt; to each breast six gold bullion gimp cord drop loops with gimp purl bottoms, loops and olivets also with concealed hook and eye fastening; quilted lining. Item has been offered purely for the badges on the sleeve. Condition of the rest of the tunic appalling with extremely heavy moth damage. Badges remain in good condition. (100-150 pounds)

Regimental Details | Uniforms