Description
Commander of the Order of the British Empire, C.B.E 2nd Type, Neck Badge, in unusual DS&S fitted case of issue, complete with full original ribbon and instructions for wearing card.
An unusual CBE Neck Badge in the uniquely designed box by “DS&S”, with gold design on the outside.
In the late WW2 and post war period, these strange CBE & DSOs began to appear made by the still unidentified maker “DS&S”.
Officially the contract for the production of these decorations had been held by Garrards & Co of London for many years, but for some reason these officially produced pieces of excellent quality have surfaced circa 1940-1950s period.
There are 2 possible makers who held these initials, the leading theory is that of David Shackman and Sons, “D.S&S” traditionally Watch Makers who emerged about 1915 as fine jewellery makers, who made a name for themselves in providing fine quality Gold and Silver cased watches made in England, housing Swiss movements, in response to the tax on imported precious metal watches.
Notably during WW2, they began to work with the Government, producing optical instruments, and pieces such as Bombsights for the armed forces from their factory in Chesham, Buckinghamshire.
The only other active maker was David Sutton and Sons, “D.S&S.”, who appeared around 1946, producing fine silver, such as cigarette cases, compacts, napkin rings, spoons etc.
