A master chocolatier has dedicated more than 80 hours to crafting a stunning collection of giant, edible coins featuring the likenesses of King Henry VIII and Queen Victoria. The delicious artworks were commissioned to celebrate a significant milestone for community banking in the UK.
Sweet Tribute to Monetary History
The project was undertaken by chocolatier Jen Lindsey-Clark, who used a staggering 15kg of chocolate alongside over 10g of metallic dust and spray to bring the royal figures to life. Each giant coin measures an impressive 20cm in width, with smaller, traditional-sized versions also produced.
To achieve perfect historical replicas, 3D moulds were meticulously created. The process involved hand-pouring the chocolate, allowing it to set, and then applying the intricate decorative finishes. The collection was unveiled to mark the opening of Cash Access UK's 200th banking hub in Billericay, Essex.
Cash Nostalgia Underscores Hub's Importance
The chocolate coins were displayed alongside real historical currency that would have been used in the area, including a pre-Roman slater, a Roman Denarius, and a Medieval Henry VI Noble. This sweet display coincides with new research highlighting the enduring emotional value of physical cash.
A survey of 2,000 adults, commissioned by Cash Access UK, revealed that 47% believe 'nothing compares' to the thrill of finding cash in a Christmas card. Over half associated cash gifts with feelings of nostalgia, and a third recalled receiving cards with coins taped inside.
Alex Conaway from Cash Access UK commented: "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. We’re here to make sure that access to cash remains a choice for everyone."
The Changing Face of Festive Giving
The study also uncovered a generational shift in how money is gifted. While 37% feel a stronger connection to loved ones when receiving physical cash, 24% are increasingly receiving money electronically. This trend is most prevalent among millennials (36%) and Gen Z (50%).
Despite this, the sentiment for saving gifted money is high. 44% put festive cash towards an emergency fund, a figure that rises to 58% among Gen Z respondents. Furthermore, 46% stated they feel greater control over their Christmas spending when using physical cash.
A limited batch of the standard-sized festive chocolate coins will be handed out to locals at the new Billericay hub, offering a tasty taste of history and celebrating the ongoing role of accessible, community-focused banking services.
