1953 Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Tin – OXO Promotional Souvenir
Celebrate a piece of royal history with this original 1953 coronation souvenir tin, issued by OXO Limited to mark the crowning of Queen Elizabeth II. Finished in bold red with colourful flags and a regal portrait of the young queen, this vintage tin box proudly displays the motto "Long May She Reign." Inside the lid is a printed royal biography, making it both a collectible container and a nostalgic memento of post-war Britain. A delightful addition for collectors of royal memorabilia, vintage tins, or British advertising history.
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This charming vintage tin is a commemorative souvenir produced in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, which took place on 2nd June 1953. It was issued "With the Compliments of OXO Limited, London, England," making it both a promotional item and a piece of British royal memorabilia.
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Key Features:
Front Design:
Bright red lithographed tin with vibrant patriotic artwork.
A youthful portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in a white circular frame topped with a crown.
Surrounding flags include:
The Union Jack.
The Royal Banner of England (three lions passant guardant).
The Scottish Lion Rampant.
Emblem "E II R" beneath the portrait.
Slogan: "LONG MAY SHE REIGN" on a golden scroll.
Reverse (Base) Text:
Black lettering reads:
"A souvenir to celebrate the coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, 2nd June 1953. With the compliments of OXO Limited, London, England."
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Inside the Lid:
Biographical details about Queen Elizabeth II:
Her birth in 1926.
Marriage to Prince Philip.
Children: Prince Charles and Princess Anne.
Succession to the throne in February 1952.
Ends with the phrase "LONG MAY SHE REIGN"—a popular coronation-era motto.
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About OXO Limited:
OXO, known for its beef stock cubes and kitchen products, was a household name in mid-century Britain. In 1953, the company used this souvenir as part of a nationwide promotional campaign to celebrate the new monarch. It's likely the tin originally held OXO cubes, sweets, or lozenges.
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Historical Significance:
This tin embodies the optimism of post-war Britain and the beginning of a new royal era. Items commemorating Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation were widely produced, but those given away by companies such as OXO are especially collectible due to their link with British consumer culture.
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 Collectible Value:
Type: Coronation commemorative tin
Date: 1953
Material: Lithographed tin
Condition: Moderate wear and some scratching typical of age; lid and imagery remain vivid and readable
Size 10cm x 5cm x 3cm approximately