A rare Edwardian coronation beaker produced in 1911 to commemorate the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary. The beaker is decorated with sepia portrait medallions of the King and Queen beneath a crown, flanked by Union flags, with the banner “Long May They Reign”.
This example is not a standard souvenir. To the reverse, it bears a municipal presentation inscription reading:
“Ald. T. Scott Foster J.P., Mayor, Portsmouth”
Civic presentation coronation wares were produced in far smaller numbers than commercial souvenirs and were typically issued for official use or gifting, making surviving examples notably scarce — particularly when the inscription remains clear and legible.
The base is clearly marked:
“A.E. Gray & Co – Glebe Works – Hanley”
Gray’s Pottery (also known as A.E. Gray Ltd.) was founded by Albert Edward Gray and operated in Hanley, Staffordshire (later part of Stoke-upon-Trent). The firm was active in the early 20th century and was later taken over by Portmeirion Pottery in 1960.
The beaker displays an even, overall crazed glaze, typical of Edwardian earthenware from this maker and period, giving the piece depth and character.
A strong acquisition for collectors of royal commemoratives, Portsmouth civic history, or Edwardian pottery, offered with full transparency regarding condition.
Dimensions 🌿 Height: approx. 10 cm
Condition 🌿 Antique condition consistent with age 🌿 Rim chips present (clearly shown in photographs) 🌿 General glaze crazing throughout, typical and expected 🌿 Decoration and inscription remain clear 🌿 No cracks or repairs observed
Condition has been fully reflected in the price.
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