This is a charming vintage tin from Farrah’s of Harrogate, a well-known British brand famous for its original Harrogate toffee.
Deep blue and silver embossed design, the tin reads: “Farrah's Original Harrogate Toffee – Est. 1840”
Side panel shows weight: “3½ ozs. Min. Net Weight 100g” Lid and inner lid stamped with branding. It likely contains the signature phrase: “Jolly Farrah” or similar, referencing the founder John Farrah
Although Farrah’s was established in 1840, this particular tin is not that old. Based on the following indicators, it's likely from the late 20th century, possibly 1980s–1990s:
Dual imperial/metric weight (oz and g): Introduced in packaging in the UK from the late 1970s onwards.
Modern style of tin manufacture with folded edges and litho print.
Condition and construction style (embossed lid, clean silver base) are consistent with display tins made for retail rather than collectible antique items.
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About Farrah’s Harrogate Toffee:
Founded in 1840, John Farrah began selling his famous hard toffee from a small shop in Harrogate. The toffee became popular among spa visitors and tourists, and by the 20th century, the decorative tins had become a hallmark of the brand, often kept as keepsakes.
The company is still operational today, and their tins are made in the UK using traditional techniques. Many designs from the 1980s onward use a consistent blue-and-silver motif that nods to Victorian styles.
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These tins, while not rare, are collectible due to their British heritage branding, decorative, embossed design and association with nostalgic confectionery.
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This tin will be especially appealing to you if you are a British confectionery collector, Vintage kitchenalia lover, or maybe a tourist with a link to Harrogate.
