AUSTRALIAN SAS EARLY PERIOD BERET 1960-70's
This SAS beret is identified as an early issue due to the sandy coloured trim around the edge as opposed to later issue berets that changed to Black trim. There are two examples on the Australian War Memorial site with the sandy coloured trim, both are provenanced from the Vietnam War. This beret has had the lining removed which a common practice amongst SAS and Australian Armored Corps troops to enable them to get that perfect shape or 'bash'.
The winged dagger badge is maker stamped J.R Gaunt which also dates the beret as the Australian SAS, when formed, used British SAS badges for their berets. This beret is not named and shows slight moth nips that do not detract from its appearance.