Pair* Royal Marine Plymouth Division Band helmet plates circa 1919-52. 2234:10. Pair* Royal Marine Plymouth Division Band helmet plates circa 1919-52. 2234:10. Antique & Militaria

The Royal Marines Band Service is the musical wing of the Royal Navy and an independent element of the Royal Marines. It currently consists of five bands plus a training wing – the Royal Marines School of Music at HMS Nelson – and its headquarters is at HMS Excellent, Whale Island, Portsmouth. The development of music in the Royal Marines is inextricably linked with the evolution of British military bands. Lively airs and the beat of the drum enabled columns of marching men to keep a regular step. The drum was the normal method of giving signals on the battlefield or in camp. As long ago as the days of Drake and Hawkins the drummer's rhythm would advertise the changing watches or beat the men to quarters. Royal Marine Drummers were first mentioned in the 1664 Convening Order, at the formation of Corps and so pride themselves as being the oldest Branch in the Corps. Two post 1923 gilded metal example of crowned star pattern mounted with laurel wreath and scroll inscribed "Gibraltar" to the top and fouled anchor to the junction below. Within the wreath, a strap inscribed "Per Mare Per Terram”. To the centre, a globe in relief. Applied Prince of Wales's plumes to one badge. Two loops to the reverse with pins. Both are in very good order. The price for the pair includes UK delivery. 22434:10.