Vintage Belgian Tin – "De Slag der Gulden Sporen" / Battle of the Golden Spurs (1302)
Mid-20th Century Biscuit or Confectionery Tin by Gulden Sporen Products
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This remarkable vintage tin celebrates one of the most iconic moments in Flemish history—the Battle of the Golden Spurs (De Slag der Gulden Sporen)—which took place near Kortrijk (Courtrai) in 1302. Created as promotional packaging for Gulden Sporen products, a Belgian brand known for biscuits and pastries, this tin is as much a patriotic tribute as it is a decorative collector’s item.
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Historical Background – A Symbol of Flemish Pride
The Battle of the Golden Spurs was fought on July 11, 1302, between the French royal army and the Flemish militias, mainly composed of urban craftsmen and peasants. Against the odds, the Flemish forces defeated the heavily armoured French knights—marking a rare and celebrated victory for a citizen army over professional feudal troops.
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The name Golden Spurs refers to the hundreds of gilded spurs collected from fallen French knights after the battle—a symbol of triumph and resilience that has since become central to Flemish national identity. Today, the event is still commemorated annually in Flanders on July 11 as the Day of the Flemish Community.
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Design Features
Lid Illustration: A vivid, stylised depiction of the Battle of the Golden Spurs. Flemish soldiers, armed with spears and axes, confront the mounted French knights. The Flemish Lion on the yellow banner is prominently featured, a powerful emblem of Flemish resistance.
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Text on Lid:
Top edge: “1302 – De Slag der Gulden Sporen – Kortrijk”
→ Translation: "1302 – The Battle of the Golden Spurs – Kortrijk"
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Bottom edge: “Robrecht van Bethune, later bekend als ‘de Leeuw van Vlaanderen’, voerde het Vlaamse leger aan”
→ Translation: "Robert of Béthune, later known as ‘the Lion of Flanders’, led the Flemish army."
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Side Panels: Decorated with arch-framed figures of knights, nobles, and historical Flemish characters—each labelled and rendered in a medieval style, lending the tin the appearance of a Gothic tapestry or manuscript.
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Interior Lid Text (Dutch, with translation):
A marketing message to housewives, highlighting the quality and pride of Gulden Sporen Products, named in honour of the battle:
> "Geachte verbruikers, geachte huismoeders,"
Dear consumers, dear housewives,
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> "Waarom kiest gij niet de fijne, rijke gamma Gulden Sporen produkten?"
Why not choose the fine, rich range of Golden Spurs products?
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> (Lists biscuits, pastries, and confectionery)
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> "Gulden Sporen, vernoemd naar den roemrijken slag van 1302..."
Golden Spurs, named after the glorious battle of 1302...
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> "In 1302 reeksen wij, vrij de vrijheid."
In 1302 we fought for freedom, free the freedom.
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This text connects everyday consumer goods with a broader sense of cultural pride and historical memory.
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Condition & Details
Era: Likely 1950s–1970s
Origin: Belgium
Material: Printed and embossed tinplate
Dimensions: 30cm x 20cm x 14cm approximately
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Condition: Aged patina with visible wear and oxidisation, especially on the lid and interior, consistent with age. Structurally sound and rich in visual appeal. Please note that the key is missing and the top of the lock is not present. It could be restored easily.
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Use: Originally for biscuits, pastries, or sweets
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Collectible Appeal
This tin is an excellent find for collectors of:
Vintage advertising tins
Belgian or Flemish heritage memorabilia
Historical or medieval-themed packaging
Commemorative ephemera linked to national identity
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Its layered value—patriotic, decorative, and commercial—makes it both a charming display item and a meaningful piece of 20th-century Flemish popular culture.
