The tradition of giving specific anniversary gifts based on the number of years a couple has been married dates back to the Middle Ages. Historians have suggested that giving distinct gifts at anniversary milestones originated in the Germanic regions of Central Europe in medieval times. Husbands would gift a silver wreath on their 25th anniversary, symbolising harmony and a gold one on their 50th. Given the expense of these precious metals at the time, it is likely this tradition was only practiced among the wealthy.

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Later, during the Victorian era of the 1800s, wood was designated for the fifth anniversary and the 75th wedding anniversary was designated the diamond anniversary. As Queen Victoria celebrated 60 years on the throne in 1897, known as her Diamond Jubilee, 60th wedding anniversaries also became associated with diamonds.

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In the 20th century, the 12th, 15th, 20th, 30th, 35th, 40th, 65th, 70th, 80th, 85th and 90th (yes, 90th!) anniversaries were added along with a symbol for every year up to 10 years. More modern substitutes have been added over the years but most couples stick to the traditional list.

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Here is the definitive list of anniversary gift years celebrated in the UK: