WW2 Canadian RCN Navy Petty Officer Miniature Pillowcase

This item is a World War II-era miniature pillowcase associated with the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and designated for a Petty Officer. Miniature or souvenir pillowcases were popular keepsakes during the Second World War, often sent by service members to family and friends as a memento of their service. This example features materials and stitching indicative of period production. The design commonly includes RCN insignia, national symbols, and text reflecting the individual’s rank and naval affiliation. Such items served as personal tokens and contributed to morale, representing the connection between military personnel and their loved ones at home. Typically, these pillowcases were not intended for practical use but rather for display or as personal souvenirs. This piece is representative of the types of memorabilia produced for and by Canadian naval personnel during the 1939-1945 conflict and offers direct insight into the material culture and customs of World War II service members.