But, Charles did make a change, with his cypher embossed. This is just one of the king’s Red Boxes, it’s said that he had more than one.
Barrow Hepburn & Gale says of the Despatch Box: “Wherever in the world the Sovereign or minister is, the red box is close by.”
Adding: “Our despatch boxes are not only an elegant design, but are functional and secure.”
The boxes have always been red and credit has been given to Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s husband, suggesting it was his favourite colour.
However, another theory suggests the custom goes back to the times of Queen Elizabeth I, when her representative gave the Spanish ambassador a red briefcase filled with black puddings.
