The Evolution of the Official Badge
The first mention in historical records of the badges worn by operatives was during Hiram C. Whitley’s tenure as Chief in 1869. He issued permission for the operatives to obtain their own badges if they wished to wear them. In 1873, the Secret Service issued its first standard badges to its operatives. A private firm designed and manufactured the new badges; however, no records remain of the actual appearance of the badges.