The Police Badge is a symbol of authority and is widely used in the United States. Many police forces around the world require officer to carry some form of identification to show that they are a police officer. For example, UK police officers carry a warrant card.

The police badge may be worn on the left chest pocket of a uniform or jacket. Plain clothes officers may wear them on a belt holder or a chain around their neck. Some uniforms have a fabric patch displayed the upper arm of the uniform shirt. It is less common to see them on police caps or helmets, although in the UK the custodian helmet where worn, bears the crest of the constabulary to which the office belongs.

The shape of the police badge varies but they are usually follow either a shield, star or crest design. Some uniforms take their inspiration from military regiment badges and crests.

Most badges will have the name of the police department or state clearly visible - either in the centre of the badge or around the edge.

In the military, regiments and platoons have always had a strong symbol under which to unite. Uniforms usually represent this either in cap badges or patches on the shoulder.

Until recently, collecting badges and patches was common amongst enthusiast. However, since the rise in large scale terrorist attacks, it has mainly been restricted to exchanging badges between police and military services as a sign of mutual respect and honour - especially when visiting. In all countries there are laws that restrict what item of official uniform may or may not be displayed in public. We advice people to check the relevant legislation in their territory.

 

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