Obverse Design Badge is in an unusual shape, a little like an eight point star. On top is a perched eagle with spread wings. The eagle's head is down and facing to its right (our left). The center is oval. A smooth band goes across and has the badge number of "98". The oval has a smooth raised edge. Above the oval and below the eagle is a curved banner with the legend "CANAL ZONE". To our left is a hook and ladder design. To our right the design may be a hydrant (it's not clear). Below the oval is another curved banner which reads "F. D." for "Fire Department". The badge has smooth raised edges, and the entire badge has a textured background.
Reverse Design Screw pin in the center.
Metal Unknown. Silver in color. Probably brass plated with nickel. Size and Shape 38 mm by 38 mm (about 1½ inches by 1½ inches).
Dates Issued This hat badge and the matching vest badge BG-70.1 were used from sometime before 1956 until September 30, 1979. On that date the Fire Department was transitioned to the Canal Commission. The Fire Department remained in one form or another and is still there protecting the locks.
Issurer Panama Canal Company.
Numbers Issued Pieces known include #98.
Rarity Rare. Manufacturer Unknown; perhaps C.G. Bramar Company of New York. Source King Collection.
Varieties None known.
Function

Fire Department hat badge. I would appreciate e-mail from anyone who can add anything to the history of these badges.