Button, 86th Carnatic Infantry, 1903-1922

Large, circular, gilt button by Army and Navy, with the regimental number, '86', within a circlet bearing the unit title, 'Carnatic Infantry', surmounted by a King's Crown.

The 86th Carnatic Infantry Regiment was created in 1903 but had its origins in the late 18th century when the Honourable East India Company raised forces to protect and extend its own interests. The 36th Madras Native Infantry was raised in 1794, part of the Company's Madras Presidency Army. After the Indian Mutiny (1857-1859) the regiment, renumbered the 26th Madras Infantry, became part of the British Indian Army. The 86th Carnatic Infantry remained in India during World War One (1914-1918).

From the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple Indian Army Collection.