Material: Printed silk
Size: 32cm x 33cm
Description: This commemorative handkerchief serves as a historic souvenir issued to celebrate the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. The central composition features side-by-side portrait medallions of the royal couple printed in a rich monochromatic blue ink, framed by a continuous border of multi-colored roses, thistles, shamrocks, and leeks representing the United Kingdom. The outer fields are heavily patterned with repeating "1937" calendar year stamps, intricate red bow ribbons, heraldic crowns, and bold corner ciphers displaying the royal "GR VI" moniker flanked by formal ceremonial swords.
Circa: 1937
Notes:
Following the abdication of King Edward VIII, George VI unexpectedly ascended the throne. His coronation became a major national event and marked the restoration of stability to the British monarchy during a politically uncertain period. This decorative silk handkerchief was produced as a commemorative souvenir for the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, held at Westminster Abbey on 12 May 1937. The original retail label reading “Coronation Handkerchief – All Silk” remains attached, indicating the piece was sold as a quality silk souvenir during the 1937 coronation celebrations. Souvenir hankies like this were particularly popular because they were inexpensive, easy to produce, and visually decorative, often incorporating royal portraits and elaborate ornamental borders.