Officer's Shako Badge 1855-1861

The shako changed in 1855 to follow the style of our French allies in the Crimean War. The badges were more standardised and most had the regimental number in the middle. The Royal Irish Regiment were permitted to have the Maid of Erin Harp with Queen's crown above on a blue enamel ground. This was surrounded with the garter which has HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE instead of the regimental motto.