China collection to mark 60 yrs of Queen's coronation unveiled

The Royal Collection Trust has launched the range of commemorative china featuring a design inspired by the pomp and pageantry of the coronation.

The eight fine bone china pieces in the range were handmade in Stoke-on-Trent and boast elaborate scrollwork edging made from real 22-carat gold, the Daily Mail reported.

Although last year's Diamond Jubilee celebrated the Queen's 60 years on the throne, the Jubilee referred to the date she ascended the throne, February 6, 1952.

However, the Queen did not officially take charge until her coronation, which took place more than a year later on the June 2, 1953, at Westminster Abbey.

On that occasion millions lined the procession route with some camping for two days to ensure a good vantage spot.

They were rewarded by the sight of the Queen, accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, travelling to and from the Abbey in the gold state coach.

Produced in the same Stoke-on-Trent potteries that made the official wedding range for Prince William and Kate, the pieces feature the royal arms and a border that replicates the silk damask banners on the state trumpets blown to herald the moment the Queen was crowned.

The crimson and gold colour scheme echoes the scarlet state livery of the coachmen who drove the Queen in the gold state coach.

The range, which is available for buying from the Royal Collection website, the Buckingham Palace gift shop and the outlet at Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, starts at 25 pounds for a red and gold coffee mug.