Head Badges

Below are examples of known Head Badges.  More precise model application of each type will be added as it becomes available.  If you have any information, please submit it for inclusion:

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Late 1940s Transfer on Head Tube – Master SS Series.  This transfer was sometimes used without the coloured bands – at this time, it is believed that it was used without bands when the frame was painted with a contrasting head tube colour and was used with bands when the head tube was the same colour as the rest of the frame.

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This is the earliest known style of Viking Head Badge.  This badge is enamel and chrome on brass.  Current thinking is that this badge was used in the years 1950 to 1951 when it was superseded by a similar aluminium badge.  Hole centres approx. 1-15/16″ (49mm).  Known fitted to Master SS, Severn Valley, Mileater and possibly the earliest Tour of Britain frames.

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This is the second generation Head Badge, similar to the above except made from aluminium and similarly enamelled. Likely introduced in 1952.  This is photographed on a Severn Valley frame and the early style Nervex Professional lugs are clearly visible.  There are a number of Severn Valley frames known to have these lugs, including Ian Steel’s 1951 Tour of Britain winning frame, although they were not listed as part of the specification.

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1950s Appears to be the Head Badge style most commonly fitted in the 1950s.  First identified usage is in 1953.  Stamped from thin aluminium.  The background is gold-anodized and there are considerable variations in the intensity of the colour between badges.  Hole centres approx. 2-5/16″ (58.5mm)

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This badge is believed to have been introduced after the one above it.  Photographed on 1955 Severn Valley.  Hole centres approx. 1-15/16″ (48mm).  It is thought to have been fitted to the sportier models, such as the Severn Valley, but has been seen on others.  Interestingly, known Tour of Britain frames either used the earlier rectangular badge or the oval badge – including known pictures of factory team bikes.

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