Hants Surgeon's Shako Plate?

A rare, silvered, shako plate with two lug fastenings (east and west) and a support to the back of the crown. It appears to have a purple cloth backing to the centre. Approximately 55mm wide x 75mm high.

Note: Terence Woods, in his book on The Military Insignia of Hampshire and The Isle of Wight 1702-1902, includes this badge in his "Questions Corner" (reference 17.7).

He suggests it might have been worn by a regimental surgeon of The Hampshire Regiment, pre-1877. The Volunteer Medical Staff Corps wore a similar item with the VR cypher to the centre.

Any additional information gratefully received.

Code: 61420