British Sterling Silver Coronation Souvenir Pendant/Badge for King Edward VII c. 1902
Jewelry · Unidentified British silversmith, likely Birmingham or Chester based on standard souvenir production traditions of the Edwardian era.
Pattern: Commemorative Coronation Souvenir line, produced specifically for the coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, originally scheduled for June 26, 1902.
Type
Jewelry
Maker
Unidentified British silversmith, likely Birmingham or Chester based on standard souvenir production traditions of the Edwardian era.
Material
British Sterling Silver (.925 fineness).
Dimensions
Estimated small pendant size, approximately 3 cm to 4 cm in height, weighing roughly 5 to 10 grams, typical of commemorative souvenir badges and charms of the period.
Description
A charming and historically poignant British sterling silver commemorative souvenir pendant or badge produced to mark the coronation of King Edward VII. The piece features intricately pierced and openwork metal framing a central banner elegantly hand-engraved with the inscription "CORONATION / June 26, 1902". Surrounded by patriotic motifs characteristic of the early Edwardian period, this piece captures a unique moment in British history—notably, the original coronation date was delayed due to the King falling ill with appendicitis just days prior, making items bearing the original June 26 date particularly interesting to historical ephemera and silver collectors alike.
Key Features
Historic coronation date inscription (June 26, 1902) which predates the actual rescheduled ceremony of August 9, 1902; delicate openwork pierced design; clear British sterling silver hallmarks.
Material & Composition
British Sterling Silver (.925 fineness).
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish highlights with openwork piercing, stamped relief work, and hand-engraved lettering reading "CORONATION / June 26, 1902" across a central shield banner, surrounded by patriotic floral and heraldic motifs in the Edwardian style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Visible British sterling silver hallmarks stamped along the lower border, including the lion passant (.925 purity), assay office mark, and date letter appropriate for 1902, along with a maker's mark.
Construction Details
Die-struck and pierced sheet silver, finished with hand-engraved detailing and soldered attachment loops.
Functional Features
Designed as a wearable commemorative souvenir badge or pendant, featuring a suspension loop or pin backing for fastening to clothing or a ribbon.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; this is a small personal commemorative item rather than a handled utensil or vessel.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial Edwardian die-stamping combined with traditional hand-piercing and crisp hand-engraving, representing the efficient yet high-quality output of early 20th-century British souvenir silversmiths.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic British hallmark punch marks visible near the lower edge, including the standard lion passant for sterling silver and period-correct date stamping. The typography of the engraving reflects authentic early 20th-century hand techniques.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom, manufactured in one of the major British assay towns (such as Birmingham or Chester) to supply the massive demand for royal jubilee and coronation memorabilia.
Era & Period
Edwardian Era (1901-1910), specifically tied to the historic coronation events of 1902.
Age Estimate
Circa 1902, precisely dated by the commemorative inscription referencing the planned June 26, 1902 coronation of King Edward VII.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the deep-seated British tradition of commemorating royal milestones through accessible personal tokens and silverware, demonstrating how patriotism and craftsmanship intersected during the Edwardian period.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Shows minor surface wear and light tarnish consistent with age and gentle handling. Structural integrity is sound with clear, legible hallmarks and crisp engraving.
Value Estimate
Moderate collector value, typically ranging from $50 to $150 USD depending on the specific maker, weight, and the added historical premium of the misdated June 26 coronation inscription.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft microfiber cloth and a mild professional silver cleaner when necessary to preserve the antique finish and engraved details. Avoid abrasive dips or harsh scrubbing. Store in an anti-tarnish pouch or dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Other British commemorative silver items from 1902, including Edward VII coronation spoons, Vesta cases, bookmarks, and commemorative medals produced by makers such as Deakin & Francis or Levi & Salaman.
Interesting Facts
King Edward VII's coronation was originally scheduled for June 26, 1902, but had to be abruptly postponed because the King required emergency surgery for an appendicitis abscess just two days before. Consequently, a vast amount of souvenir merchandise, including silver items and ceramics bearing the June 26 date, had already been manufactured, making these misdated items fascinating collector's pieces today.