Antique brooch of a boomerang, kangaroo, emu and coat of arms by Willis

Here is a fantastic antique brooch that was not only made by one of Australia’s most famous and prolific jewellers, but truly is as Australian as it can get.

Made in 9 carat gold, the brooch measures 52mm across by 26mm and depicts both a kangaroo and emu facing the Australian Commonwealth Coat of Arms on top of a boomerang with the word “Australia” across the front.

King Edward VII first officially granted of a coat of arms to the Commonwealth of Australia in 1908. The first Coat of Arms was a shield of white and blue with a cross of St George, with five six-pointed white stars along the cross and six small shields around the edge of the shield.

The shield was supported by a kangaroo and an emu standing on a grassy mound and above the shield was the crest containing the seven-pointed gold star of Federation on a wreath of white and blue. The motto ‘Advance Australia’ was inscribed at the base of the grassy mound, all of which can be seen on this brooch.

Not only is this brooch over 110 years old, but it is also in exceptional condition and as beautiful today as when it was made over a century ago.

Making it even more exciting is that this particular brooch is seen on page 274 of the book, Australian Jewellers: Gold & Silversmiths, Makers & Marks, by Kenneth Cavill, Graham Cocks, and Jack Grace.

Such a wonderful conversation starter, there is no doubt that this brooch will always be commented on and admired from near or far.

Stock# ES9308

Maker: Willis

Circa: 1910

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