online Militaria dealer - Antique-Militaria [UK]
magnify icon Search militaria Medals - Arms - Militaria
Home icon Antique Militaria Home for the SEs and the curious Site map People shaking hands icon Historic comments
Title Princess Mary Christmas Fund Gift Tin
Nationality British
Period 1914
Sold

In November 1914, an advertisement was placed in the national press inviting monetary contributions to a 'Sailors and Soldiers Christmas Fund' which had been created by Princess Mary, the 17-year-old daughter of George V and Queen Mary. This was to provide all military personnel serving overseas on Christmas Day 1914 with a 'gift from the nation'.

The response was overwhelming and, by 1920, two and a half million boxes had been made. This one is an early example, of brass, with faint traces of its original lacquer. It contains none of the original contents, except for one empty yellow monogrammed cigarette packet.

On the lid, there is the central bust of the Princess with the names of the allied countries embossed around.

The condition of the tin is excellent for its age, with a few dents to the base and a small dent to the Princess's coiffure!

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Militaria : Miscellaneous : British : 20th Century]

testimonials

The badges arrived this morning. Thank you for the prompt delivery and your help...

J H, UK, 13.01.2012

Yes, arrived safe and sound, very nice, and very interesting. Have a couple of friends in the States slavering over the pictures, one of them loves searching old lists, etc. If I can tie it down more definitely will let you know.

N R, UK, 19.10.2005

more...