This button represents a fascinating chapter in military history as it belonged to the Royal Army Chaplains' Department, an essential yet often overlooked branch of the British Army. 

These were men who served as spiritual guides, moral support, and comforters to soldiers in the darkest of times and the Department traces its origins back to 1796 and became a formal part of the British Army in 1799. 

Chaplains were often found on the front lines, ministering to soldiers in trenches, on the battlefield, or in hospitals. Their mission was one of compassion, providing solace to the wounded and the last rites to the fallen.

This rare button which is pre 1940 was part of the chaplains' military uniform and serves as a reminder of the unsung heroes who served not with weapons but with words of comfort and prayers.