Definition

• Insignia.  A symbolic device of distinctive shape and three dimensions indicating rank, office or honor, most often intended to be worn. Such apparel insignia always have
  some mechanism – a stem and clasp or pin and catch – for attaching to a garment. Frequently insignia are trimmed to their distinctive shape and infrequently have enamel to provide color or further distinction. Military insignia indicating rank are typical examples.
  In a somewhat broader sense, a medallic insignia is a three-dimension graphic
  symbol rendered into three dimensions, but one created originally in modulated relief. It often becomes the more important symbol of an organization or event, should they have a graphic symbol as well, or the three-dimensional insignia is expressed in a graphic form. Creating a medallic insignia was often the first work of contemporary sculptors commissioned by an organization or institution. Once this symbol was established, the sculptor would prepare a bust or relief of the founders, then move on to prepare anniversary medals and such. The insignia would then appear on these sculptural objects, often as a subsidiary device.
              American military insignia are under the control and creation of the Institute of Heraldry.  Insignia is a Latin-derived term from episemon, an early form of badge.

  excerpted with permission from

  An Encyclopedia of Coin and Medal Technology

  For Artists, Makers, Collectors and Curators

  COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY D. WAYNE JOHNSON

  Roger W. Burdette, Editor

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