1935 King George V & Queen Mary Silver Jubilee Commemorative Tin Box

1935 King George V & Queen Mary Silver Jubilee Commemorative Tin Box

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(Celebrating 25 Years of Reign – 1910 to 1935)

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Marking a pivotal moment in British royal history, this beautifully aged commemorative tin was produced in 1935 to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of King George V and Queen Mary, honouring twenty-five years on the throne from 1910 to 1935. It remains one of the most charming and enduring examples of 1930s patriotic design — a time when everyday objects were transformed into keepsakes of national pride.

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Design & Details

This rectangular tin features oval portraits of King George V, resplendent in naval uniform, and Queen Mary wearing her diamond tiara and sash of the Order of the Garter. The portraits are framed within an ornate floral and foliate border in gilt and deep navy tones, echoing Art Deco influences of the era.

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The sides of the tin are decorated with stylised Tudor-rose motifs and scrollwork, centred by an elegant cartouche bearing the inscription:

“1910 – 1935 SILVER JUBILEE.”

The lid is hinged, and the interior retains its original tin-plate finish, showing authentic age-related wear and surface patina that tells its nearly 90-year story.

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Historical Background

The Silver Jubilee of 1935 was a landmark royal celebration, marking the first such jubilee of the twentieth century. It came at a time of global uncertainty, between the wars, when the monarchy provided stability and continuity. The event was celebrated across Britain and the Empire with parades, street parties, and commemorative souvenirs — from ceramics and textiles to tins like this one.

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King George V, who ascended the throne in 1910, had guided Britain through the turmoil of the First World War, while Queen Mary was admired for her poise, duty, and elegance. These tins were commonly filled with biscuits, tea, or confectionery, made by renowned British firms such as Huntley & Palmers of Reading, Peek Frean, or John Barringer & Son. They were intended to be kept and reused in the home long after the treats were gone — often for sewing notions, trinkets, or letters — which is why many survive today as cherished pieces of history.

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Condition

Vintage condition consistent with age, with areas of surface wear, light oxidation, and fading to the tin-plate interior.

Colours remain softly muted yet legible, with both royal portraits intact and full of character.

Hinged lid in good working order.

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Dimensions

Approx. 20 cm (L) × 14 cm (W) × 12 cm (H)

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Collectability

Silver Jubilee tins such as this are increasingly sought after by collectors of royal memorabilia and vintage British packaging design. Each piece captures a blend of social history, art, and craftsmanship.

This example’s detailed floral pattern and surviving royal portraits make it particularly desirable for display or as part of a historical collection.

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A wonderful slice of British heritage — a patriotic keepsake from 1935 that bridges the grandeur of empire with the warmth of home.