Queen Elizabeth II’s Wedding Cake Slice Fetches £2,200 at Auction

A segment of wedding cake, described as “very rare,” originating from the nuptials of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, was acquired at auction for £2,200. This fruit cake was discovered beneath a bed, stored within a suitcase, 77 years subsequent to the distribution of the original 9ft (2.7m) cake to 2,000 attendees. The then-Princess Elizabeth presented it as a gift to Marion Polson, who served as the housekeeper at The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh between 1931 and 1969. James Grinter, representing the Colchester-based auction house Reeman Dansie, commented, “It’s a real little find, a little time capsule of glorious cake.” The cake, which had an initial estimated value of £500, was sold to a bidder located in China, who completed the purchase via telephone. Ms. Polson received a piece as an expression of gratitude for acquiring a “delightful” dessert service for the newly married couple. She retained possession of it until her passing in the 1980s, at which point it was stored beneath a bed alongside some of her personal effects. The cake remained within its original presentation box and was accompanied by a letter from the Queen, dated November 1947. The letter stated: “My husband and I are deeply touched to know that you shared in giving us such a delightful wedding present.” It continued: “We are both enchanted with the dessert service; the different flowers and the beautiful colouring will, I know, be greatly admired by all who see it.” Ms. Polson’s family, based in Scotland, reached out to the auctioneers earlier this year with the intention of selling the item at auction. The extravagant cake for the royal couple featured four tiers and contained alcohol, prepared for their wedding on 20 November 1947. Mr. Grinter, identified as Reeman Dansie’s royal expert, stated that Ms. Polson’s particular slice represented the first piece ever sold “in its completeness.” He informed BBC Essex: “This one actually has its original contents which is very, very rare.” He further added: “Bear in mind it was produced at a time of rationing… They had the most magnificent cake made for them.” “I’ve seen photographs of it – it would fill half a room, it was absolutely enormous,” he remarked. Mr. Grinter noted that the cake was no longer in optimal condition, stating, “I don’t think I’d particularly want to eat it, I must admit.”