*British, Interwar-1937, Rowntree Coronation Souvenir Tin for King George VI & Queen Elizabeth, with City of London Coat of Arms*
A commemorative tin produced by Rowntree & Co. Ltd, York, England, marking the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1937. The gold-finished tin features central oval portraits of the King and Queen in their coronation regalia, flanked by a crowned “GR VI” monogram on the left and the coat of arms of the City of London on the right — a detail highlighting its special distribution in London to commemorate the city's civic pride during the coronation festivities.
The tin is inscribed “CORONATION SOUVENIR 1937” along the top edge, with the base marked “Rowntree & Co Ltd, Cocoa & Chocolate Makers, York, England.” The interior is plain silvered metal with embossed oval outlines echoing the portraits on the lid.
Approximate dimensions: 15.6 cm x 6.5 cm x 1.4 cm.
Historical context
These tins were commercially produced and sold to the public rather than issued as official gifts or fundraising items. Versions bearing the City of London crest were often presented locally or sold as civic souvenirs, making them an interesting variant for collectors.
*Condition*
Shows scattered surface wear and age-related scratching, including some losses to the gilded finish and minor oxidation around the edges. Interior clean with light tarnishing. Hinges are intact, and the portraits remain bright and clear. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
