The first record of this pattern is in 1902 with pattern number R994 for china and 2/5061 for earthenware. The design has a registered number 395839 which was issued on 23 August 1902 and registered the design with the British Patent Office. The pattern is on the Chelsea shape.

When Colonel Alfred Copeland was serving with the British Army in Persia he brought back an example of Chinese porcelain with this pattern on it - the design dates back to the 1400s. The dominant flower is the chrysanthemum, the Chinese symbol of steadfast friendship and associated with a life of ease and retirement.

Many versions of the pattern have been produced over the years both in earthenware and bone china. Blue is the usual colour which is still produced today. Other popular versions were:

Red Colonel: with pattern number Y5201 first recorded in 1937
Green Colonel: with pattern number Y7131 first recorded in 1950
Crimson Colonel: with pattern number Y7134 first recorded in 1950
Grey Colonel: with pattern number Y7144 first recorded in 1950
Colonel in Red: with pattern number Y7359 first recorded in 1953
Colonel in Gold: with pattern number Y8065 first recorded in 1963

In earlier years, the pattern has been produced on various plain shapes.