St Edward’s Crown Removed for Coronation Prep
The historic centrepiece of the Crown Jewels, St Edward’s Crown, has been quietly removed from the Tower of London. Buckingham Palace confirmed the priceless treasure was taken away to allow vital modification work before the big day on May 6.
The move was kept under wraps until the crown arrived safely at its new location, highlighting the priceless nature of the royal icon.
Coronation Crown Steeped in History
St Edward’s Crown has been central to British coronations since the 13th century. The current crown was crafted in 1661 for King Charles II, replacing the original medieval crown melted down in 1649 during the English Civil War.
The original crown likely dated back to Edward the Confessor, England’s last Anglo-Saxon king, from the 11th century. This crown has been the symbol of monarchy for centuries.
Icon of Royal Tradition and Power
The crown’s image is stamped across the UK — it features in the royal coat of arms, the Royal Mail logo, and numerous military badges. As Buckingham Palace put it:
“St Edward’s Crown, the historic centrepiece of the Crown Jewels, has been removed from the Tower of London to allow for modification work to begin ahead of the Coronation on Saturday May 6 2023.”
The coronation will take place at Westminster Abbey, eight months after the monarch’s accession and the Queen’s passing — marking one of the most significant moments in British royal history.
