From Biscuits to Bidders: Why Tins Remain Timeless Keepsakes

Every so often, an everyday object reminds us that good design and a bit of history can turn up in the most ordinary places. That happened when a Huntley & Palmers biscuit tin — featuring a bright red London double-decker bus — sold at auction for £3,100.

According to the article in The Independent, the tin, dating from the late 1920s, had sat untouched in a Nottingham home for decades. Its owners brought it to a free valuation day, expecting little, only to learn that collectors were eager to own a piece of design and confectionery history. The auctioneer praised its remarkable condition and the craftsmanship that had helped it survive nearly a century — even through World War II.

The Huntleys & Palmers Tin which recently sold at Auction for over £3,000. Image source: The Independent

A Testament to the Enduring Allure of Tin

Stories like this highlight something we at Elitetins deeply believe: tin is more than packaging — it’s memory made to last.

The Huntley & Palmers tin is a perfect example. Created at a time when biscuit makers competed to outdo one another with clever, decorative containers, it wasn’t just about keeping biscuits fresh. These tins were designed to be reused and cherished, often doubling as sewing boxes, storage containers, or display pieces.

And nearly a century later, that thoughtful design still captivates.

Why Tin Still Captures Hearts and Homes

There’s a reason collectors, designers, and brands continue to be drawn to tins today — and why the team at Elitetins continues to invest in new, creative ways to celebrate this timeless material.

1. Built to Last Tin’s durability is second to none. It resists wear, keeps its shape, and protects its contents beautifully. Whether stored in a kitchen, cupboard, or attic, a tin can outlast almost anything else in its category.

2. A Canvas for Creativity From embossing and print finishes to unique shapes and vivid colours, tins are endlessly versatile. They can tell a story, capture a brand’s essence, or evoke nostalgia with a single glance.

3. Reusable and Sustainable In an age where sustainability matters more than ever, tins stand apart as reusable, recyclable, and eco-friendly packaging solutions. A well-made tin doesn’t just get used once — it finds a second life in homes around the world.

4. Emotional Value Many of us remember the rattle of a tin of biscuits at Christmas, or a grandmother’s sewing kit repurposed from a biscuit tin. These emotional connections transform tins into keepsakes that travel through generations.

A Modern Legacy

At Elitetins, we see ourselves as part of that ongoing story. As a tin specialist, we help brands, retailers, and creators design tins that are not only practical but collectible — the keepsakes of tomorrow.

From classic cake tins and rectangular biscuit tins to custom shapes and embossed designs, our team works with businesses and brands to create tins that reflect their unique style and story.

Elitetins — Our Vintage Record tin plates are a perfect example of how tin can turn memories into something lasting.

Whether you’re packaging biscuits, tea, candles, or promotional gifts, a custom tin instantly elevates your product — and ensures your brand is remembered long after the contents are gone.

If you’re ready to design a tin that will stand the test of time, or if you’d simply like to explore our wide range of ready-made options, we’d love to help.

Browse our 2025 Catalogue or enquire about your own custom tin because who knows, the tin you design today might be the collector’s treasure of the future.

Interested in reading the full article in The Independent click here