A slice of history was recently auctioned off as a piece of Queen Elizabeth’s 78-year-old wedding cake found a new owner, and surprisingly, the buyer plans to indulge in this royal treat. Gerry Layton, a devoted royal enthusiast, secured the slice at an auction held by Reeman Danise, shelling out $5,600 for this rare relic.
This 78-year-old slice of fruit cake, infused with alcohol, was originally part of the 2,000 slices served at the royal couple’s wedding reception at Buckingham Palace back in 1947. Considered a precious artifact, it is believed to be one of the last surviving pieces of the historic cake.
Expressing his excitement about the purchase, Layton shared his intention to consume this delicacy on his 65th birthday next year. He envisions a grand celebration aboard the late queen’s former yacht, Britannia, where he plans to flambe a portion of the cake in rum, ensuring any bacteria is eradicated before consumption.
Despite its age, Layton reassured that the slice is well-preserved, having been carefully stored in its original packaging for nearly eight decades. The slice, measuring four inches by three inches, was initially bestowed upon Chief Petty Officer F. Lownes of the Royal Navy, who later passed it down to his son.
Remarkably, this isn’t Layton’s first foray into acquiring slices of royal wedding cakes. In 2021, he made headlines for securing a piece of Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s 40-year-old wedding cake at an auction, showcasing his unwavering dedication to preserving royal memorabilia.
The wedding cake of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip was a grand creation, standing at an impressive 9 feet tall with four tiers. Weighing 225kg, the cake’s ingredients were sourced from various corners of the globe, symbolizing the union of the royal couple in a lavish and extravagant manner.
Layton’s purchase of this iconic slice not only serves as a unique memento of the royal wedding but also reflects his deep admiration for the monarchy’s history and traditions. By planning to consume this aged piece of cake, Layton is not only indulging in a culinary delight but also honoring the legacy of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip in a truly special way.
As enthusiasts like Layton continue to cherish and preserve these historical artifacts, the legacy of the royal family’s significant events remains alive through these tangible connections to the past. With each bite of this 78-year-old wedding cake, Layton will not only savor a culinary delight but also partake in a symbolic tribute to a timeless love story that has captivated the world for generations.
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