WW1 British National War Savings Committee Badge By Thomas Fattorini

A First War British National War Savings Committee Badge - Bronze gilt with red and black enamels, maker marked "THOMAS FATTORINI BIRMINGHAM Ltd" on the reverse, 29.2 mm, horizontal pinback, intact enamels, very light contact, extremely fine. Footnote: During the First World War, the Swastika was adopted by the National War Savings Committee, who issued war bonds at 15s.6d. (15 Shillings & six pence) each. The bond in effect was a loan to the Government, to help fund the war. Advertising slogans stated that "for 15/6 124 cartridges could be bought for a soldier at the front." The value of the bond would increase annually so that after five years, it would be worth a Sovereign (£1 sterling). If need be, it could be cashed in earlier by the investor. However 15/6 was a large sum of money for many poorer families so 6d (six pence) savings stamps were issued (also with a Swastika on them) which could be purchased weekly or whenever people could afford them. After thirty-one stamps had been bought, the bond or certificate was issued. There were also small square enamel badges, which were of a similar design as the stamps, and were given to the stamp sellers to wear.