ANTIQUE SILVER LIVERY BADGE, WILLIAM DICKINSON, 1797. The badge of oval design, decorated with an elephant with tower on his back. The outside decorated with a wreath. Hallmarked London, 1792. the back with text and dated: Willm. Dickinson, Livery. 19th October 1797. L. 5.6 cm. 30.4 grams. Livery badges traditionally have been worn as forms of identification by members of City of London companies. Liverymen historically wore a gown and hood to distinguish themselves. By the 1760's liverymen were showing a reluctance to wear the traditional gown and so badges were introduced. Livery badges were required to gain entry to the Common Hall, or assembly at the guildhall. The badge also conferred on the wearer social status and protection. This badge was awarded his livery by the Cutler's Company.