HISTORY

Hancocks was founded on the 1st January 1849 by Charles Frederick Hancock, previously a partner of Storr and Mortimer, opening a shop on the corner of Bruton Street, New Bond Street, London.

On 13th. August 1849, after only eight months in business, Hancocks received the Royal Warrant from Queen Victoria, she and many of the Principal Sovereigns of Europe became regular patrons. This was followed by a further 4 Royal Warrants including Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother which was held up to her demise.

Hancocks exhibited at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London; this was followed by exhibitions in Paris and Vienna in 1867 and 1873 where Hancocks were awarded many prestigious medals of excellence. These form part of the proud history of the Company and to this day these medals are in the Company's private collection. Hancocks continue this tradition by exhibiting our fine antique jewellery and silverware at Grosvenor House and overseas at Maastricht and New York.

There can be little doubt that the rapid expansion and peerless reputation earned by Mr. Hancock during the formative years of the Company led to us being entrusted with the design and production of the Victoria Cross on the inception of the award in 1856. This medal is the highest award for gallantry and is still made exclusively by Hancocks today.

Hancocks subsequently moved in 1917 to Vigo Street, 1970 to Burlington Gardens and in 1998 to our current home in Burlington Arcade.

Interested in more of Hancocks history? Select one of the following links:

Charles F. Hancock

The Devonshire Parure

The Victoria Cross

19th Century Exhibitions

Personalities