The 1980s marked a major shift in the history of Robertson’s Golly badges, with the introduction of a bright, modern range of acrylic Golly badges featuring the distinctive pointed‑feet design. These colourful Robertson’s badges became a familiar sight for collectors and fans of the brand, offering a fresh take on the long‑running Golly theme.
The decade’s collection included a wide variety of characters such as the Ambulanceman, American Footballer, Astronaut, Bagpiper, Baker Viota, Brownie, Butcher, Car Driver, the 1930–1980 Commemorative Golly, Cowboy, Cricketer, Darts Player, Doctor, Engine Driver, Fireman, Fisherman, Footballer, Golfer, Guitarist, Jogger, Lollipopman, Milkman, Motorcyclist, Mountie, Nurse, Policeman, Postman, Racing Car Driver No.23, Sailor, Skier, Snooker Player, Standard and Tennis Player. Each acrylic Golly badge captured the lively, playful spirit of the era, making these 1980s Robertson’s issues some of the most recognisable Golly badges ever produced.
Alongside the main pointed‑feet Golly badge series, Robertson’s also released several related acrylic badge sets during the 1980s, including a small collection of five acrylic fruits, a number of special promotional badges, and in 1985 a boxed presentation set of 1940s White Waistcoat Golly reproductions. Together, these Robertson’s Golly badges represent an important chapter in the evolution of the brand’s collectables, blending nostalgia with the brighter, more contemporary style of the decade.