74th Highlanders. officer’s gilt 18mm

74th Highlanders. A fine example of the officer’s gilt 18mm button with backmark FIRMIN & SONS 153 STRAND & 13 CONDUIT ST LONDON. The button has the design of the Assaye elephant with the Victorian crown sitting on its back like an oversized howdah. The regimental number appears below and the honour ASSAYE above.  The regiment first saw action against Tippoo Sultan in 1791 and saw considerable further service in India. Of the 109 numbered line regiments just three bore elephants on their buttons in recognition of their service in India and two others bore tigers. mar30/8