Original antique royal commemorative postcard published by Raphael Tuck & Sons, depicting the famous Procession of the Nine Kings, held in London on May 20, 1910.

Front Image:

A richly detailed, full-color illustration shows an extraordinary ceremonial procession of European monarchs riding on horseback in full military regalia. The event took place during the funeral ceremonies of King Edward VII and is widely remembered as the largest gathering of reigning monarchs in modern history.

The procession includes (as labeled on the card):

• King George V (United Kingdom)

• The German Emperor

• Kings of Norway, Greece, Bulgaria, Denmark, Spain, Portugal, and Belgium

• The Duke of Connaught

The monarchs are shown wearing elaborate uniforms, medals, and plumed helmets, emphasizing the power, pageantry, and fragile unity of pre-World War I Europe. The artwork is signed Harry Payne, a noted military and royal illustrator known for ceremonial and regimental subjects.

Back / Publisher Details:

Printed “Tuck’s Post Card” with the royal coat of arms and “By Appointment” designation, confirming Tuck’s status as official art publishers to the British monarchy. Part of the “King George V” Royal Postcard Series, series number 9877, and marked “Chromographed in Prussia”, reflecting the high-quality German printing used by Tuck before World War I. Undivided back format.

Historical Context:

The Procession of the Nine Kings is often described as the last great moment of European royal unity before the outbreak of World War I in 1914. Many of the monarchs depicted would soon find themselves on opposing sides of the conflict, making this image a powerful symbol of a vanished political world.

Raphael Tuck & Sons produced a number of royal and state event postcards during this era, which were widely collected as souvenirs and historical records. Cards depicting this procession are especially desirable due to the significance of the event and the number of identifiable monarchs represented.

Details:

• Event: Procession of the Nine Kings

• Location: London, England

• Date Depicted: May 20, 1910

• Publisher: Raphael Tuck & Sons

• Artist: Harry Payne

• Era: 1910

• Postcard Type: Illustrated royal commemorative postcard

• Postal Era: Undivided back

• Condition: Light age toning, edge and corner wear, and gentle surface wear consistent with age; image remains strong and detailed (see scans for full condition)

A museum-worthy example of early 20th-century royal history, ideal for collectors of British monarchy, European royalty, pre-World War I history, or Raphael Tuck postcards. Visually striking, historically significant, and increasingly scarce.