Processional banner of Amalgamated Engineering Union, South Australian Branch, used by metal trades unions in street parades. Contains a different ornate emblem on either side, with fringe at bottom. One side reads, 'Amalgamated Engineering Union. United to Protect.' The reverse reads, 'South Australian Amalgamated Engineering Union Machinists Millwrights Smiths & Pattern Makers. Be United and Industrious.' At top is South Australian coat of arms with motto 'Advance Australia'.

Trades union banners of the late 19th and early 20th centuries were carried in marches, initially during the 8 hour day campaign, and later in Labor Day marches marking the workers struggle for rights in the workplace.

In 1876 the creation and registration of trade unions was permitted in South Australia; an Australian first. South Australia was the first territory of the British Empire, outside of Britain, to legalise trade unions.

Moss, Jim Sound of trumpets : history of the labour movement in South Australia Cowandilla, S. Aust. : Wakefield Press, 1985

Stephen, Ann Badges of labour, banners of pride, Andrew Reeves / Ann Stephen, Sydney : Trustees of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences in association with George Allen & Unwin, [1985]