25th Foot The Kings own Scottish Borderers Officers QE11 Shoulder Belt Plate

25th Foot The Kings own Scottish Borderers Officers QE11 Shoulder Belt Plate worn 1953-2006 when merged with the Royal regiment of Scotland - a burnished gilt curved plate on this all in silver a crown with lion over a scroll “Inveritate Religionis confide” (I trust in the truth of religion) a St Andrews Cross to the centre a circular strap Kings own Scottish Borderers to the centre Edinburgh Castle to the bottom the Motto for Edinburgh "Without God everything is in vain”. In superb condition. Price includes delivery within the UK. Additional charges apply for international shipping.

25th Foot — The King’s Own Scottish Borderers (KOSB) QEII Officer’s Shoulder Belt Plate (1953–2006) Overview

The officer's shoulder belt plate for the King’s Own Scottish Borderers (KOSB), as worn from 1953 (Queen Elizabeth II’s accession) until the 2006 regimental merger, is rich in symbolism that reflects both the regiment’s heritage and Scottish identity.

Material & Appearance:

Burnished gilt curved (golden-bright) metal backing.

Decorative silver elements.

Crown with Lion: At the top sits the Royal Crest—a lion standing on the crown, indicating royal patronage and the regiment’s “King’s Own” designation.

St. Andrew’s Cross: The prominent saltire (X-shaped cross) as the national cross of Scotland.

Circular Strap: Encircling the central emblem is a strap inscribed “King’s Own Scottish Borderers.”

Edinburgh Castle: At the center is a depiction of Edinburgh Castle, symbolizing the regiment’s historic ties to the city. The castle refers to Edinburgh’s arms and to the regiment’s pivotal role in the defense and history of Edinburgh since its raising in 1689.

Mottoes:

“In Veritate Religionis Confido”: Latin for “I trust in the truth of religion,” this was granted as the official regimental motto in 1805 by King George III. It expresses the regiment’s spiritual foundation and moral compass.

“Nisi Dominus Frustra”: Beneath, on another scroll, is the Edinburgh city motto: “Without the Lord, everything is in vain.” This phrase underscores reliance on divine providence and closely links the regiment to the City of Edinburgh, whose arms and motto it shares.

Symbolism
Royal Crest (Lion on Crown): Signifies royal favour and the regiment’s distinguished service history. The regiment uniquely retained the English Royal Crest rather than switching to the Scottish one in the 1960s, reflecting deep regimental tradition.

St Andrew’s Cross: Represents Scottish pride and national identity.

Edinburgh Castle: Highlights the regiment’s origin and long-standing association with Edinburgh.

Mottoes: Emphasize faith and divine guidance in military duty.

Historical Context
Regimental History: The King's Own Scottish Borderers, originally the 25th Regiment of Foot, was established in 1689 to defend Edinburgh. Granted “King’s Own” status in 1805, the regiment’s identity became interlaced with both royal and Scottish traditions. In 2006, it amalgamated with other Scottish regiments to form part of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Use of Plate: This shoulder belt plate, part of officer ceremonial kit, was worn continuously from the start of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign until the regiment’s 2006 merger.

Notable Points
The badge design, including the castle and both mottoes, reflects correspondence and debate over nearly a century, resolving in 1832 with explicit authorization to use Edinburgh’s arms and motto alongside the regimental motto.

The lion and St Edward’s Crown motif, affectionately called “the dog and bonnet” within the regiment, became an enduring KOSB signature.

This belt plate is a remarkable piece of regimental history, weaving together themes of faith, Scottish heritage, royal duty, and military honour.