The History of the Coronation Biscuit Tins

The Coronation biscuit tins have a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. These tins were specially designed and produced to commemorate the coronations of British monarchs, specifically King George V, King George VI, and Queen Elizabeth II. Let's explore the history of the Coronation biscuit tins in more detail:

King George V (1911):

The tradition of producing commemorative biscuit tins for coronations began with King George V in 1911. The tins were manufactured by the famous British biscuit company, Huntley & Palmers. The design of the tin featured intricate engravings and illustrations representing the royal occasion. These tins contained a selection of biscuits and were distributed as souvenirs to commemorate the coronation.

King George VI (1937):

The tradition continued with the coronation of King George VI in 1937. Once again, Huntley & Palmers took the responsibility of producing the commemorative biscuit tins. The design of these tins featured images of the King and Queen Elizabeth (later known as the Queen Mother) along with other symbols and motifs representing the royal event.

Queen Elizabeth II (1953):

The most famous and widely recognized Coronation biscuit tins are those produced for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Huntley & Palmers continued their collaboration with the royal family and created beautifully designed tins for this occasion. These tins often showcased portraits of the Queen, the royal crown, and various scenes symbolizing the event. The biscuits inside the tins were a selection of traditional British treats.

Over the years, other biscuit manufacturers and confectionery companies joined in producing Coronation biscuit tins, including companies like Carr's, McVitie's, and Jacobs. The designs evolved with each coronation, incorporating contemporary artistic styles and reflecting the changing tastes and trends of the time.

Coronation biscuit tins became highly collectible items among enthusiasts, with many people cherishing them as historical artifacts. The tins are often sought after by collectors and can be found in antique stores, online auctions, and dedicated collectors' markets.

It's worth noting that the tradition of producing Coronation biscuit tins is not limited to British monarchs. Similar commemorative tins have been created for other significant events in British history, such as the Silver and Golden Jubilees of Queen Elizabeth II and other royal celebrations.

In conclusion, the Coronation biscuit tins have a long and storied history, serving as cherished mementos of significant royal events. They beautifully capture the essence of the coronation ceremonies and continue to be valued by collectors and enthusiasts alike.