Celebratory ‘God Save the King’ Flag of Historical Significance

Celebratory ‘God Save the King’ Flag of historical significance * English 1930s * Original Flag * "God Save The King" * Later frame for protection against damage This flag is of historical significance as there were three Monarchs during the period of 1936-1937; George V who died in 1936, Edward VIII who abdicated, never having had his Coronation and subsequently George VI who was the father of the late Queen Elizabeth II. This historic celebratory banner reads, “God Save The King” in bold white and split red and blue letters, set against a red, white, and blue striped field. This English-produced banner was printed sometime in the mid 1930s which could well have been used to celebrate the coronation of King George VI in 1937 – or used even earlier for celebrations for his father George V. Banners such as this were proudly waved by British citizens to celebrate the Coronation of a new monarch or other significant celebratory occasions. There is some wear and creasing visible from past display and possibly minimal soiling present from age, but otherwise there is no notable damage to the piece. The banner is beautifully framed to protect against further damage and it is housed behind glass. Significant Events 1936-1937: After the death of George V in 1936, his first born son Edward VIII ascended to the throne; his rule was short-lived as he abdicated less than a year later and his Coronation never actually took place although it was planned for 12th May 1937. Edward’s younger brother, George VI ascended the throne upon the abdication of his brother, Edward VIII, on 11 December 1936, three days before his 41st birthday. It was decided to continue with the previous Coronation plans and these were fulfilled with the Coronation of George VI and his wife, Elizabeth, as King and Queen of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth, Emperor and Empress consort of India took place at Westminster Abbey, London, on Wednesday 12 May 1937. George VI was a celebrated hero of the British people, a symbol of determination, and an ardent supporter of Winston Churchill leading Britain through World War Two. He and his wife, Elizabeth, and his daughters, the future Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret, remained beloved and treasured by many for their stoicism during World War II.