The Royal Horse Artillery have the mottos 'Ubique' (Everywhere) and also 'Quo fas et gloria ducunt' (Where fate and glory lead). They were first employed in north Holland in 1799, but in the 19th century they were the mobile arm of the artillery which always accompanied large bodies of cavalry as a protective and offensive force.
These ball buttons, typically worn on the RHA's short stable jacket, are both maker marked 'Firmin & Sons Ltd' on the reverse, which helps to date them as the company were styled Firmin & Sons Ltd only from 1841 onwards. The Queen's crown dates them as being no later than 1901, when Queen Victoria died.
The fact that there is no gilding apparent on them indicates that they are, in all probability, other ranks buttons. They are made of gilding metal. (They are not quite as coppery as they look in the photos - this red look is always caused by artificial light.)
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Militaria : Buttons : British : 19th Century]
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