A slice of wedding cake from the nuptials of the future Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, which took place 77 years ago, has generated quite the buzz after fetching over four times its expected auction price.
The sweet relic, which was discovered tucked away under a bed inside a suitcase, sold for more than $2,800. Initially, it was estimated to go for around $650, according to the BBC. The rich fruitcake, served at the royal wedding on November 20, 1947, was made for approximately 2,000 guests, showcasing the grandeur of the occasion.
This remarkable cake slice was gifted by Marion Polson, the housekeeper at Holyroodhouse Palace, to the royal couple, as she had purchased them a delightful dessert service for their wedding. According to auctioneer James Grinter from Reeman Dansie, this fragment of the royal wedding is not only “very, very rare” but also serves as “a little time capsule of glorious cake.”
The winning bidder, revealed to be from China, purchased the cake slice over the phone, adding another layer of intrigue to its story. James Grinter also noted the unique nature of this transaction, saying it was “the first piece ever sold ‘in its completeness.’”
After Polson's passing in the 1980s, the cake slice remained hidden among her possessions until it was discovered not long ago. Thankfully, the piece of cake preserved its original presentation box, complete with a letter from Queen Elizabeth herself, dated back to her wedding month. The heartfelt letter expressed the couple’s gratitude: “My husband and I are deeply touched to know you shared in giving us such a delightful wedding present.”
Queen Elizabeth, who ascended the throne on February 6, 1952, less than five years following her wedding, described the dessert service as “delightful,” mentioning how much the floral designs and coloring would impress those who saw it.
The couple's wedding cake was nothing short of spectacular. It stood nine feet tall, boasted four layers, and weighed around 500 pounds. Designed during the post-war rationing period, the cake was not only impressive but also lavishly laced with alcohol, according to the BBC.
Grinter also pointed out the significance of this cake during the time of rationing, remarking on its grandeur compared to typical desserts of the era. He displayed enthusiasm for its historical value, though he humorously admitted, “I don’t think I’d particularly want to eat it, I must admit.”
The cake slice highlights the rich history encapsulated within royal traditions and the British monarchy's role over the decades. For many, it is less about the dessert itself and more about the memories and historical moments it signifies—from the extravagant royal wedding to this modern auction showcasing timeless heirlooms.
Historic pieces like this cake slice are continually drawing interest from collectors, history buffs, and royal enthusiasts alike, ensuring they remain prominent figures of cultural heritage. With the world’s fascination with royal family artifacts showing no sign of waning, it’s likely we’ll continue to see more pieces of this kind making their way to auction houses.
