This Badge was worn in World War Two by Mussolini's Notorious Facist "BLACKSHIRTS", known as the M.S.V.N. It was worn as a Head-dress Badge on their Black Side-Hats and also as a Collar Badge.

At first shot we thought that it was a more 'Modern' Badge with its single screw lug fastening.......but fortunately a collector friend put us on the right track. It would appear that the reason why this badge has ended up in this part of the world was due to it being lifted by a South African......on his way 'North' through Abyssinia during World War Two. We are further informed that the same badge was used as a Collar Badge.
"Quartermaster's Comment":- The Fasces was a Bundle of Rods with a Projecting Axe Blade. It has been used as an Emblem of Authority for hundreds of years in Italy.
The Fasces was originally carried by a 'Lictor'......who was an Officer attending the Consul or Magistrate........and executing the sentences as passed down to those found guilty........Either just a good whipping......or "Off with his Head"!!!!........Hence the Gear Depicted.
Fascis translated from the Latin means 'Bundle'. 
An interesting Badge as worn by Mussolini's Blackshirts!!!!