WINNIPEG – As a sign of authority, sacrifice, and service, the police badge is the most significant and recognizable symbol of official policing around the world.

Police badges have been around for hundreds of years, dating as far back as when medieval knights expressed their allegiances and loyalty by adorning a coat of arms.

Anyone selling current-issue federal badges can be fined and even tossed behind bars for as long as six months, but decommissioned shields are legally approved to be sold by the average citizen.

This Winnipeg police badge, manufactured in the USA, was roughly dated to be from the 1890s, which is possible since Winnipeg’s first official law enforcement body was created in 1870.

Such a fine historical piece of civil duty sold on eBay this month for over $300!

Finders is a local acquisitions and services company that professionally evaluates antiques and collectibles. If you believe you have something worth investigating, please follow Finders on Facebook and Instagram (@finderscanada) and contact the administrator.