Vintage PORT LINE LTD Shipping Uniform Button - House Flag 1937-1982 (TM2164) For Sale
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Vintage PORT LINE LTD Shipping Uniform Button - House Flag 1937-1982 (TM2164):
$22.75
Offered is an authentic maritime uniform button from the Port Line Ltd., a prominent British passenger and cargo line. The face of the button features a crisp embossing of the company’s house flag—a blue saltire (X-shaped cross) under a red cross on a white field—surrounded by the "PORT LINE" name and a rope-twist border.
The reverse features a decorative Greek Key pattern backmark. This specific geometric motif was a hallmark of quality for various button manufacturers catering to the merchant shipping industry during the mid-20th century.
Historical Context & Dates:
While the company’s roots trace back to the 1914 formation of the Commonwealth & Dominion Line, it was officially renamed Port Line Ltd. in November 1937. The company was a critical part of the Cunard group and was famous for its refrigerated "Port" ships (e.g., Port Brisbane, Port Auckland) that carried meat and dairy from the Antipodes to Britain.
The Port Line officially ceased independent operations in 1982, when its last remaining vessels were transferred to the Brocklebank Line.
• Period of Issue: 1937 – 1982
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minimal surface wear. Shank is original and secure. (See photos image_2.png and image_3.png for details).
Shipping Policy:
Standard shipping is the exact cost stipulated by the carrier. No handling fees or padded charges are ever applied.
### Historical Information Summary
• Origin: Formed from the 1914 merger of Tyser Line, Star Line, Indra Line, and Anglo-Australian Steam Navigation.
• The Name: While "Port Line" was used colloquially for years, it became the official legal name in 1937.
• WWII Service: The fleet suffered heavy losses during World War II, losing 13 ships to enemy action.
• Decline: The rise of containerization in the 1960s and 70s led to the eventual phasing out of the traditional Port Line fleet.
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