Kings Shilling Pewter Tankard with Glass Base

Steeped in story and craftsmanship, this 1-pint pewter tankard brings historic tradition to the modern drinker. Handcrafted from high-quality lead-free pewter, it features a smooth polished body, a sturdy square-shaped handle, and a touchmark near the rim for authenticity. Its defining feature is the double glass base containing a genuine shilling coin, accompanied by a printed story card that explains the centuries-old legend behind the “King’s Shilling.” The plain front panel allows space for engraving initials, a name, or a special date. Supplied in a simple gift box, with upgrade options to a silk-lined or wooden box.

• Capacity – 1 pint
• Weight – Approx. 400g
• Design – Plain polished body with square-shaped handle and touchmark near rim
• Material – Handcrafted from high-quality lead-free pewter
• Finish – Bright polished inside and out
• Engraving – Available for personalisation (front panel)
• Features – Double glass base containing a genuine shilling
• Extras – Includes a printed story card
• Presentation – Supplied in a simple gift box, with upgrade options to a silk-lined or wooden box
• Dimensions – Height 125mm | Base Diameter 115mm

Evocative and full of historical charm, this tankard is more than a drinking vessel — it’s a conversation piece and a treasured keepsake. Ideal for collectors, history lovers, or anyone who enjoys raising a pint with a sense of tradition. Steeped in legend and tradition, this tankard is more than a drinking vessel – it’s a piece of history. A handcrafted pewter gift and lasting keepsake, perfect for collectors, history enthusiasts, and ale lovers alike.

The Story of the King’s Shilling
“Merry be you enjoying fine ale, but beware – in the darkness at the base of your tankard may lie a shilling of the Monarch. Too late, and you feel the hand of the Sergeant’s men on your shoulder – accepted the Monarch’s Shilling you have, the bargain concluded!”

The glass-bottom tankard was created to prevent this trick. With the base clear, drinkers could spot the hidden shilling and avoid being press-ganged into the Navy or Army. First recorded in 1694, the practice lingered until it was formally abolished in 1870, though the “King’s Shilling” continued to be mentioned in the Mutiny Act of 1878.