Primrose League Knights Imperial badge in presentation case

A scarce original Victorian period "Primrose League Knights Imperial badge', unmarked LARGE pattern example in the form of a cross cut in brilliant silver facets, the central Crowned strap bearing the legend "Imperium Et Libertas" (Empire and liberty) with small yellow enamel primrose on patriotic 'Union Flag' background; the reverse with Registered number "Rd196300" a Design and Patent date of 1892 and maker's details "W.O.Lewis Birmm". Contained in original velvet lined fitted leather case with corresponding maker's details to the lid, one half of the catch absent. Very good condition, retaining original slider fitting, enamel intact.
Height 41mm.

In 1883 Lord Randolph Churchill father of Winston Churchill, Sir Henry Drummond Wolff, Sir Alfred Slade and Sir John Gorst formed this Conservative backed league to promote not only the party also National Patriotism and the unity of the British Empire. The motto of the League became Imperium et Libertas", this taken from the famous speech delivered by Benjamin Disraeli the Earl of Beaconsfield in 1879.