03/20/2026
The primary distinctions between a casket and a coffin lie in their shape and construction. A coffin is traditionally six-sided, tapering at the head and foot with a wider section at the shoulders, while a casket is rectangular with four straight sides. In the United States, caskets are more commonly used and often feature enhanced craftsmanship, including interior lining, fitted hinges, and split hinged lids. Coffins, by contrast, typically have a simpler design with fully removable lids.
