Object of the Day: Museum Edition: A Souvenir of the Non-Coronation of King Edward VIII

Earthenware Mug
James Kent, 1937
The Victoria & Albert Museum

Commemorative coronation items for King Edward VIII are difficult to come by since he never technically had a coronation, having abdicated before the date. His brother, the Duke of York succeeded and became King George VI, having his coronation on the same date on which his brother was to have his.


I have a few Edward VIII items in my collection of Royal memorabilia. The Victoria and Albert Museum has two. Here’s one of them—a near twin to one in my own collection. This mug manufactured by James Kent in 1937 was among the many souvenirs which were produced and quickly pulled from public sale when the change-over occurred.