An exceptional historical artefact from British India, this original “Rai Bahadur” title badge represents an official civil honour conferred during the British Raj. Dating to 1 January 1920, during the reign of King George V, this named award preserves a tangible connection to the honours system and administrative history of colonial India.
Crafted in silver with gold-gilt detailing, the badge displays an attractive dark chocolate patina on the obverse, adding character to its historic appearance. The reverse is personally named to “Babu Ramtaran Banarji” and bears the date of award, 1 January 1920. The original suspension ring further enhances its historical integrity and collector appeal.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND:
During British rule in India, the titles “Rai Sahib” and “Rai Bahadur” were bestowed upon selected individuals in recognition of public service and contributions to society or the colonial administration. “Rai Bahadur” was the higher of these two titles and represented a distinguished level of recognition.
Such title badges are important material records of the honours and social structures of British India. A named example with a precise date offers a particularly personal connection to the historical period.
BADGE DETAILS:
Country: British India
Type: Indian Title Badge / Civil Honour
Title: Rai Bahadur
Monarch: King George V
Period: c. 1911–1936
Award Date: 1 January 1920
Named Recipient: Babu Ramtaran Banarji
Metal: Silver
Finish: Gold-Gilt
Obverse: Attractive dark chocolate patina
Reverse: Named and dated
Suspension: Original suspension ring
Condition: Extremely well preserved, as described
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
The Rai Bahadur title occupied a distinguished position within the British Indian honours system. Compared with the title of Rai Sahib, it carried higher status and reflected the colonial administration’s formal recognition of selected individuals.
This badge is particularly interesting because its inscription identifies a recipient by name and records a specific award date. These details provide valuable starting points for further research into the recipient’s life, career, and public service.
COLLECTOR’S APPEAL:
• Original British India civil honour badge
• Distinguished Rai Bahadur title
• Named to Babu Ramtaran Banarji
• Precisely dated 1 January 1920
• Silver construction with gold-gilt finish
• Attractive dark chocolate patina
• Original suspension ring retained
• Strong appeal for collectors of British Indian history, colonial honours, medals, and historical memorabilia
AGE OF THE ARTEFACT:
Dated 1 January 1920, this badge is approximately 106 years old in 2026.
A remarkable named historical artefact from British India, combining an important civil title, precious-metal craftsmanship, and a documented date that gives the piece a distinct individual identity.
