Princess Irene Brigade (PIB) Beret – Lock & Co, London

Original WWII Princess Irene Brigade privately purchased beret. A beautiful and rare original WWII period beret attributed to the Princess Irene Brigade (Prinses Irene Brigade), the Princess Irene Brigade was formed in the United Kingdom during WWII and consisted of Dutch volunteers and servicemen who escaped occupied Europe or came from overseas to continue the fight against Nazi Germany. Trained and equipped in Britain, the brigade later took part in the liberation of France, Belgium, and the Netherlands in 1944–1945. This privately purchased example is made from brown wool and features the distinctive orange backing with the gilt Dutch lion and Nederland insignia. The interior retains its original brown lining with a diamond-shaped maker’s label, bearing the stamp of Lock & Co, London. The beret also retains its original adjustment ribbon and interior fittings. The beret shows honest signs of age and wear, with a wonderful overall patina.