Queen Elizabeth Coronation Memorabilia

 February 6, 2022 marked the beginning of England's “Platinum Jubilee” celebrating Queen Elizabeth's 70 year reign.  She ascended to the throne on the death of her father on February 6, 1952.   The formal coronation ceremony was postponed until June 3, 1953 because, according to British tradition, no festivals should be held for a year after the death of a monarch. Also, planning an event such as a coronation takes time.

People wanted something to mark this important date so all sorts of memorabilia was produced. Tea cups and saucers were popular items.  One of these is on display in the Benton County Historical Society's Corvallis Museum in the first floor hallway case.

This particular cup was made by Tuscan of England.  It features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth in the middle of the family crest featuring a rampant lion (symbol of England) and a chained unicorn (representing Scotland).  The unicorn is chained as legend vies unchained unicorns as dangerous.  The thistle is a symbol of Scotland, the shamrock of Ireland, and the Tudor rose of England. The banner on the left says “Queen Elizabeth II” and the one on the right says “Dieu et mon Droit” (God and my right) which is the motto of the English monarchy.

This design was one of several approved for commemorative items. Others feature a portrait of  Queen Elizabeth in uniform surrounded by flags or a portrait of Queen Elizabeth surrounded by laurel leaves with Tudor roses, shamrocks, and thistles or variations on these designs.

After her coronation, Queen Elizabeth's image appeared on coins throughout the British Commonwealth.  This 1953 Canadian coin is one example. 

Now that the Platinum Jubilee has begun, British manufacturers have been producing articles to commemorate this event.  There is an approved 70^th anniversary design which features the royal coat of arms against at purple and gold background.

By Martha Fraundorf, Volunteer for Benton County Historical Society, Philomath, Oregon