NAvy ID

[PFF]

Saw a post that until recently the RN used Fibre ID tags!!

Did they use Fibre in 1914-1918?

Wiouldn't brass have been better at sea?

[HarryBettsMCDCM]

The ones I have seen are Aluminium,

[CROONAERT]

Saw a post that until recently the RN used Fibre ID  tags!!

Did they use Fibre in 1914-1918?

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

YES!!!

Fibre tags, in the RN, replaced the aluminium tags gradually between 1914 and 1917 (though it's possible to find some from later, especially in colonial forces).

Brass tags were never officially issued, but some "private purchase" ones can be found - not just for the Navy (usually they were in steel or silver though). Most brass tags are encountered in the German Army where they were issued to counter any zinc allergy. Even WW2 Kriegsmarine tags weren't usually brass, but were coated aluminium or zinc.

If you read my posts on the thread that mentions the Naval tags, you'll see my explaination of the use of Naval tags (slightly different to that of the army).

Also, don't forget that those vulcanised fibre tags are a lot more hard-wearing than many people give them credit for!

Dave.