Two of Britain's most famous monarchs, King Henry VIII and Queen Victoria, have been given a deliciously unconventional tribute in the form of commemorative chocolate coins.
A Sweet Celebration for a Banking Milestone
The unique edible artworks were commissioned to mark the opening of the 200th banking hub operated by Cash Access UK. The launch took place in the Essex town of Billericay.
Master chocolatier Jen Lindsey-Clark was tasked with bringing the regal figures to life in chocolate. She created a collection featuring both giant coins measuring 20cm wide and others in more traditional, smaller sizes.
An 80-Hour Labour of Love
The intricate process took a total of 80 hours to complete. To ensure historical accuracy, 3D moulds were first produced. These were then carefully filled with hand-poured chocolate.
The chocolatier used a substantial 15kg of chocolate and over 10g of metallic dust and spray to achieve the authentic, gilded finish of real currency. Once set, each coin was meticulously embellished.
The finished chocolate masterpieces were displayed alongside genuine historical coins that would have been used in Billericay, including a Roman Denarius, a Medieval Henry VI Noble, and a modern two-shilling piece.
Public Get a Taste of History
On December 18, a limited number of the standard-sized festive chocolate coins were given out to members of the public at the new banking hub. This sweet gesture allowed people to literally get a taste of Britain's coinage history.
The initiative coincides with new research highlighting the enduring emotional value of physical cash, especially during the festive season. A poll of 2,000 adults, commissioned by Cash Access UK, found that 47 per cent believe 'nothing compares' to the excitement of receiving cash in a Christmas card.
Alex Conaway from Cash Access UK commented on the findings: "This research shows that while digital payments play a huge part in modern life, the emotional value of giving and receiving cash, especially at Christmas, remains incredibly strong."
He added, "Over half of those we polled said that cash at Christmas makes them feel nostalgic, a third even remember receiving a card with coins taped inside. We're here to make sure that access to cash remains a choice for everyone."
Nostalgia Versus Modern Trends
The study revealed a strong sentimental attachment to tangible gifts. 37 per cent of respondents feel more connected to a loved one when given a physical gift like cash. Conversely, 34 per cent labelled bank transfers at Christmas the 'ultimate Grinch move'.
Despite this, modern habits are shifting. The research found that 24 per cent are increasingly being sent money digitally instead of receiving a physical present. This trend is even more pronounced among younger generations, affecting 36 per cent of millennials and half of Gen Z respondents.
The poll also uncovered prudent financial behaviour, with exactly four in 10 people saying they are more likely to save gifted money rather than spend it immediately. Furthermore, 44 per cent save this festive cash as part of an emergency fund, a practice most common among Gen Z at 58 per cent.
Finally, the research underscored a practical need for cash access, with 46 per cent stating they feel more in control of their festive spending when using physical money.
