Looking for the ultimate Christmas gift for someone who is British and proud? Two iconic objects set for auction could dial up success – and confuse the postman!
A George V Royal Mail red painted pillar post box with original key, estimate £1,500-£1,800, and a K6 red telephone box, estimate £2,500-£3,000, will be offered in Hansons’ on November 25.
The K6 was introduced in 1936 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of the coronation of King George V, hence it is known as the ‘Jubilee Kiosk’. The design is the brainchild of British architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott (1880-1960).
Resplendent in red, both items are indicative of British life and capture the essence of our unique heritage. The phone kiosk was brought by the vendor’s uncle. Both she and her siblings often asked him why he purchased it. He joked that he planned to turn it into an outside toilet!
Luckily that never happened though, from time to time, confused passers-by asked if they could go inside to make a telephone call. It is unusual in that the door opens from the front, not the side.
The post box was also part and parcel of family fun. Sometimes children hid their tennis rackets inside. It would be an enviable addition to a property, and an investment. Iconic historical items like this are likely to gain in value.
Both items will be offered in Hansons’ November 22-25 Antiques and Collectors Auction. View Hansons’ auction catalogues and bid at www.hansonslive.co.uk. If you are considering selling, book a free valuation by emailing [email protected] or calling 01283 733988.
