South Eastern Railway, arrival of the Shah of Persia

Ticket, South Eastern Railway, for admission to Dover and Charing Cross Stations in connection with the arrival of His Imperial Majesty the Shah of Persia, Wednesday June 18th 1873, number 196, admit bearer to Charing Cross Station, blue, 6" x 4 1/2".

In 1873, Shah Naser al-Din Shah Qajar of Persia toured Europe. He travelled through many European countries, including Russia, Italy and France among others. He was the first modern Shah to formally visit Europe, and he was keen to make connections with European leaders. When the Shah came to Britain he met with Queen Victoria and was appointed as a Knight of the Order of the Garter, the most senior Knighthood. The following year he published a book, ‘Diary of H.M. the Shah of Persia During His Tour Through Europe in A.D. 1873’ recounting his journey. Chapter 4 covers his 18 day stay in England.