Obverse Design Badge is in the shape of a Maltese cross. The center is round with a rope edge. The outside of the badge has a smooth raised edge. In the center is "10" (the badge number). Above the number is an incuse legend, perhaps punched, of "CANAL ZONE". Below the number in the same style and size letters is "PANAMA". The top arm of the cross has a curved smooth banner with the location name of "PEDRO MIGUEL". The left arm (as you look at the badge) has a hydrant from the early 1900's. The right arm has a hook and a ladder. The lower arm has another curved smooth bannner which reads "V.F.D" for Volunteer Fire Department. The entire badge has a textured background.
Reverse Design Vertical pin back.
Metal Unknown. Silver in color. Probably nickel plated brass. Size and Shape About 45mm wide by 45mm high (1 3/4 inches by 1 3/4 inches).
Dates Issued Unknown. This series is tentatively identified as the first type of Canal Zone Fire Department badges. The volunteer fire departments were organized starting in December, 1905. This is probably the second earliest of the three similar varieties. It may have been issued in 1906 or 1907.
Issurer Probably the Isthmian Canal Commission. Pedro Miguel was the site of one of the Pacific locks of the canal.
Numbers Issued Pieces known include #10.
Rarity Very Rare. Manufacturer Unknown. Source King Collection.
Varieties There are three similar varieties. The first type has a place name at the top, "V.F.D." at the bottom and never mentions the Canal Zone. The second type is identical except that "CANAL ZONE PANAMA" has been added in small incuse letters on the field around the badge number. The third type has "C.Z.V.F.D." at the bottom to identify the Canal Zone, and does not have the small "CANAL ZONE PANAMA" legend.
Function

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