Archery Society Award Appraisal

Grand Western Archery Society Silver Merit Brooch

This is an antique sterling silver archival badge or brooch associated with the Grand Western Archery Society. The item is crafted in a horizontal layout featuring a central oval garter/belt buckle motif, which is a traditional heraldic design element. Inside the garter is a central boss depicting a target, and the entire oval is horizontally bisected by three fletched arrows. The upper portion of the garter is embossed with the text 'GRAND WESTERN'. The piece is constructed from silver, exhibiting a bright metallic luster with minor surface tarnishing consistent with age. Based on the provided context, the reverse contains silversmith hallmarks and the number '22', which likely indicates a membership number or a specific merit ranking. The fletching of the arrows shows fine, textured detailing, demonstrating high-quality craftsmanship characteristic of late 19th to early 20th-century sporting societies. The condition appears excellent with no visible structural deformities, though light surface scratches are present. This style of badge was typically awarded for tournament success or institutional membership within the prestigious UK-based archery organization established in the 1860s.