George had never expected to be king. Born Prince Albert Frederick Arthur George, he was the second son of King George V, and therefore was behind his elder brother Edward in the line of succession.

On the death of his father in 1936, Prince Edward became King Edward VIII. Shortly thereafter, the monarchy was thrown into crisis by Edward's desire to marry the twice-divorced American Mrs. Wallis Simpson. Edward was faced with a choice: renounce Wallis Simpson or abdicate the throne. He chose the latter option and his brother reluctantly became King George VI on December 11, 1936.

Leading Britain through the dark days of World War II, King George VI became one of her most beloved kings.

Produced in 1937, this lovely glass basket commemorates the coronation of King George VI. Beautifully decorated with embossed flowers, scalloped edges and the traditional English Crown in the center, this charming piece of history also proudly bears the words "Coronation of H.M. King George VI", as well as the year. A fine, elegant addition to your coronation collection, this delightful basket is sure to sparkle with its regal presence. 

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. In very good vintage condition. Measures 7.25" W x 6" H from top of handle to base.

Learn More about Coronation Memorabilia

As a means to commemorate historic events - including coronations; silver, golden and diamond jubilees; royal weddings and royal visits to distant lands - artisans and craftspeople were commissioned to create beautiful pieces of memorabilia. Highly collectable, they are much more than mementos of an event long past. They are lovely pieces created to capture the spirit of their time as much as they capture our imaginations today.