item details
NameDocument, 'Distinctive Badge / Card of Authority to Wear'
ProductionGovernment Printer (N.Z.); publisher; 1916; New Zealand
ClassificationVisual and Verbal Communication, official documents
Materialspaper, printing ink, brass
DimensionsOverall: 151mm (width), 100mm (height)
Registration NumberGH023122
Credit linePurchased 2011
Overview
This card was issued to William G. Barr who had voluntarily enlisted for service in May 1916 and was waiting to be called up with the 18th Reinforcement draft in June. The card states that Mr Barr had been issued with a badge indicating that he had enlisted and that he has authority to wear the badge. Wearing the badge was intended to stop new recruits, still wearing civilian clothes, being accosted and "white-feathered" (accused of cowardice or 'shirking').