RMS Alcantara RMSP Company shipping line 1949 silver wheel badge

A scarce original post-war period 'R.M.S Alcantara ship's wheel brooch', fine quality example mounted to the centre with the house flag of the 'Royal Mail Steam Packet; the reverse impressed with Birmingham silver hallmarks for 1949 and maker's details "MN & WB" (Mappin & Webb London and Sheffield). Very good condition, retaining original pin fittings, enamel perfect.
Diameter 27mm.

'RMS Alcantara' was built by Harland & Wolff, Belfast, she was launched for Royal Mail Lines in 1926. She was sold to Japanese shipbreakers for scrapping in 1958.