France - Conseil Général Ille-et-Vilaine Cap Badge (Badge of the General Council of Ille-et-Vilaine, France)
Country: France
Organization: Conseil Général Ille-et-Vilaine (General Council of Ille-et-Vilaine, Brittany, France)
Material: Gilt bronze with blue enamel details
Dimensions: 60.99 mm x 41.32 mm
Era: Likely early to mid-20th century
Design Features:
Obverse:
Central gilded medallion with the inscription "RF" (République Française), representing the French Republic.
Surrounding blue enamel inscription: "CONSEIL GENERAL ILLE-ET-VILAINE" (General Council of Ille-et-Vilaine).
Fasces symbol (bundled rods with axe) at the top, a traditional emblem of authority and justice in France.
Decorative oak and laurel leaves symbolizing strength, victory, and governance.
Letters "R" and "F" flanking the central design, reinforcing the République Française symbolism.
Reverse:
Attachment System:
The badge features a long, vertical pin-back mechanism, which is characteristic of French official insignia.
The pin is intact, slightly curved for secure fastening.
Historical Context:
Conseil Général (General Council) is a regional administrative body in France responsible for governance at the departmental level.
Ille-et-Vilaine is a department located in the Brittany region of northwestern France, with Rennes as its capital.
This badge was likely worn by officials, council members, or uniformed personnel associated with the General Council of Ille-et-Vilaine.
Condition Report:
Metal Finish: Well-preserved with some patina on the silvered and gilt portions.
Enamel: Intact blue enamel around the central medallion.
The reverse exhibits oxidation and tarnishing, especially around the central area. Some areas appear slightly worn or polished, suggesting prior use.
Overall Condition: Good to Very Good.
This badge is a unique piece of French regional governmental insignia, ideal for collectors of French administrative, regional, or political memorabilia.