What is the Queen Elizabeth Coronation Crown
The phrase “Queen Elizabeth coronation crown” usually refers to the Imperial State Crown made for the 1937 coronation of Queen Elizabeth II (later Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother). It is one of the most iconic symbols of British monarchy, worn at the coronation ceremony and later at State Openings of Parliament. This crown is part of the Crown Jewels, housed at the Tower of London, and distinct from the older Crown of Queen Victoria or the ceremonial Imperial State Crown redesigned in 1937.
Key facts at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Name commonly used | Imperial State Crown (1937 version) | Official terminology |
| Made for | Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, 12 May 1937 | Historical record |
| Current location | Tower of London, Jewel House | Historic Royal Palaces |
| Weight (crown only) | Approximately 1.06 kg (2.3 lb) | Institutional data |
| Major stones | Cullinan II diamond, Stuart sapphire, St Edward’s Sapphire | Gemological records |
Context for the query
When people search for “queen elizabeth coronation crown”, they are usually asking about the crown worn by Queen Elizabeth II at her coronation in 1937. Search intent here is evergreen: readers want a reliable explanation of what the crown is, why it matters, and where it is now. This overview avoids speculation and focuses on verified attributes, symbolism, materials, and preservation status, which are the durable facts that remain useful over time.
Design and symbolism of the Imperial State Crown
The Imperial State Crown was redesigned in 1937 for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother), replacing an earlier version from 1838. It was intended to convey continuity, majesty, and the authority of the Crown. The front features the Cullinan II diamond, set within a frame of pearls and silver, below the Black Prince’s Ruby. The crown includes the Stuart sapphire at the back and, since the 1950s, the central stone has been St Edward’s Sapphire, taken from a ring associated with Edward the Confessor. These elements together signal regnal legitimacy and historical lineage.
Key design elements and meaning
- Cross of St George and gold frame: Represent England and the sovereign’s authority.
- Cullinan II diamond: One of the largest diamonds cut from the Cullinan rough, symbolizing strength.
- Black Prince’s Ruby: A large red spinel misnamed as a ruby, set in the front.
- Stuart sapphire: Set at the back, linked to James II’s reign and the line of succession.
- St Edward’s Sapphire: Added in later conservation, evoking medieval kingship.
Materials, construction, and conservation
The crown is made of gold, platinum, and silver, decorated with thousands of diamonds, pearls, and historic stones. Because it is used in coronations and major state occasions, it has undergone careful conservation over decades. The Crown Jewels are protected by advanced security at the Tower of London, and the crown is displayed in a controlled environment to limit exposure to light and humidity. Understanding these points is essential for long-term preservation and public knowledge of the object’s condition.
Where to see the crown today
The Imperial State Crown is held in the Jewel House at the Tower of London. Visitors can view it as part of the Crown Jewels exhibition, which includes the regalia used in coronations since the seventeenth century. Viewing is subject to security procedures and occasional removal for conservation or ceremonial use, so it is advisable to check official access details before visiting. The crown remains an active symbol, carried in the State Opening of Parliament and other major national events.
Comparison with related crowns in the collection
| Item | Key Difference | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Imperial State Crown (1937) | Smaller than St Edward’s Crown, designed for procession after coronation | State Opening of Parliament, ceremonial processions |
| St Edward’s Crown | Larger, used for the actual moment of crowning | Coronation service |
| Crown of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother | Often called the Queen Elizabeth coronation crown in search queries | Coronations and state occasions; similar design ethos |
Preservation, security, and public access
Conservation of the Imperial State Crown involves regular checks of settings, cleaning of metals, and monitoring of gemstone stability. Security includes reinforced casing, environmental controls, and continuous monitoring within the Tower of London. Public access depends on ceremonial and conservation schedules; temporary removals can occur for repairs or updates to display methods. These measures ensure that the crown remains legible and intact for future generations while remaining accessible for national and scholarly audiences.
Common questions and clarifications
- Is this the crown used in the 1953 coronation of Queen Elizabeth II? No; the 1937 Imperial State Crown was worn by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother in 1937. The coronation crown used in 1953 was St Edward’s Crown during the actual crowning, with the Imperial State Crown carried afterward.
- Can I see the crown up close? Yes, as part of the Crown Jewels display at the Tower of London, though viewing is subject to security and conservation conditions.
- How much is the crown worth? Precise valuation is not published; the collection is insured for an extensive figure, but individual gemstone components can be appraised separately.
- Has the crown been altered since 1937? Yes; conservation and minor resets have occurred, notably involving St Edward’s Sapphire in the mid-20th century to stabilize the design.
Reliable sources and further reading
Information in this overview is drawn from official records of the Crown Jewels, statements by Historic Royal Palaces, and gemological documentation held by institutions responsible for the collection. For ongoing condition and access details, consult the official Tower of London website and authoritative references on regalia history. These sources support accurate, verifiable explanations that remain useful over time.
Why this explanation endures
Because the design, materials, and ceremonial role of the Imperial State Crown are fixed elements of British coronation tradition, this explanation remains relevant. Updates may occur only through conservation or security practice changes, not through shifts in factual history. Focusing on verified attributes and transparent sourcing ensures this guide stays reliable for researchers, travelers, and curious readers.