Vintage 1977 Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Match Tin by Cornish Match Company – Complete with Original Matches and Striker
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Description
Celebrate a landmark moment in British royal history with this vintage 1977 Queen’s Silver Jubilee commemorative match tin, produced to honour Queen Elizabeth II’s 25th year on the throne.
Crafted by the Cornish Match Company and The Pioneer Match Works of Swansea, this charming round tin captures the patriotic spirit of 1977, when the nation came together to celebrate the Queen’s reign with pageantry, street parties, and souvenirs.
The tin is beautifully designed in red, white, and black, with a bold royal cipher E II R and crown motif on the lid. Around the sides, an ornate red and white floral pattern frames the portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, alongside the Royal Coat of Arms and a banner that reads:
> “The Queen’s Silver Jubilee 1977.”
Inside, the tin still contains its original compartmented tray of blue-tipped safety matches, unused and intact — a rare survival. The inner lid retains the original printed label reading:
> “This is a new self-adhesive striking surface for the Cornish Match Company’s super Saloon Tin. Peel off warm striker and apply. Specially packed by The Pioneer Match Works, Swansea, South Wales – 1977.”
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Historical Context
The Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, celebrated throughout 1977, marked 25 years since her accession to the throne in 1952. It was a year of profound national pride, reflected in an outpouring of commemorative items, from ceramics and coins to tins and textiles.
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The Cornish Match Company and Pioneer Match Works, two historic British firms, collaborated on a series of souvenir tins for this occasion. Pioneer Match Works — one of the last traditional match manufacturers in the UK — operated from Swansea, producing promotional and collector’s match tins well into the late 20th century. Their 1977 Jubilee tin is one of the most iconic examples of post-war British souvenir design, combining patriotic motifs with practical everyday craftsmanship.
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Condition
Vintage condition with light surface wear and age patina
Some signs of age to the printed surface (consistent with age and handling)
Retains all original matches and inner label
Lid closes securely
Overall, this is a beautifully preserved piece of royal memorabilia and a delightful addition to any collection of vintage tins, royal souvenirs, or 1970s British design.
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Dimensions
Approx. 5.5 cm high x 6 cm diameter
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Collectability & Display
This Silver Jubilee match tin represents more than just a piece of packaging — it’s a snapshot of Britain in 1977, when craftsmanship and celebration intertwined. Perfect for collectors of:
Royal memorabilia
Vintage tins and match containers
1970s British design
Coronation and Jubilee souvenirs
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Display it alongside other royal commemoratives, or as a nostalgic accent in a curio cabinet or period-inspired room.