Choosing the Coffin or Casket What is the difference between a Coffin and a Casket? The difference is basically one of design. Coffins are widest at the shoulders and taper in at the head and the foot so the coffin mirrors the form of the human body. The lid is not hinged and is removed altogether. Caskets are rectangular in shape with a hinged lid and are usually constructed of better quality timbers and feature higher standards of workmanship. Choosing a coffin…