The Priceless Crown: The Value of Queen Elizabeth II's Crown and Thrown

Introduction

For most of her reign, Queen Elizabeth II was surrounded by treasures that were priceless and invaluable. While they were hers, they were not for sale. These priceless items, including the Coronation Chair and the Coronation Thrown, were held in trust for future generations. This article explores the value and significance of these royal symbols, focusing on their historical and cultural importance.

The Coronation Chair and the Stone of Scone

The Coronation Chair, a must-see for any visitor to Westminster Abbey, has played a crucial role in the coronation ceremonies of British monarchs since 1306. The chair is arguably one of the oldest objects in Britain. According to legend, it was first used by King Edward the Confessor and has been updated and restored numerous times over the centuries to reflect its usage in contemporary Coronation ceremonies.

One notable feature of the chair is the Stone of Scone, a sandstone block that was traditionally used as a coronation seat for Scottish monarchs. The stone was taken to London during the reign of Edward I and has remained with the English monarchs ever since. The stone is currently kept in Edinburgh Castle, where it is only moved when a new monarch is crowned, symbolizing the historical unity and connections between England and Scotland.

The Coronation Thrown

While the Coronation Chair is a marvel of historical significance, its cousin, the Coronation Thrown, is often overlooked. The thrown, also referred to as the West Minister Chair, can be seen in many royal portraits and is used during the state opening of Parliament. Historically, this thrown dates back to around the 15th century, making it an incredibly old and significant piece. Like the Coronation Chair, it is not for sale and retains its priceless status.

Queen Elizabeth II's Thrown

Queen Elizabeth II's personal thrown, which was used in official functions and ceremonies during her reign, is another example of a priceless royal treasure. These thrown were custom-made for each monarch and their consorts, often adorned with intricate embroidery and fine materials. The thrown is not just a symbol of authority but a costly ornamental item, with some even being auctioned off for significant sums. However, in the context of the monarchy, such thrown are not meant to be sold but rather preserved and passed down.

Queen Máxima's Throne

In the Netherlands, the throne or thrown of Queen Máxima is a smaller but no less significant piece. These thrown hold a special place in royal families across the world, symbolizing the transfer of power from one generation to another. Queen Máxima's thrown, like those of Queen Elizabeth II, would also be considered priceless, representing the cultural and historical heritage of the Netherlands.

The Value of the Crown and Thrown

Despite being invaluable and priceless, the Crown and thrown do carry a potential value in their current and historical context. According to experts, if the British monarchy were to fall, the throne and crown could potentially be sold for an incredibly high price due to their historical value and significance. The crown itself, due to its historical material and cultural symbolism, would be worth billions, especially considering its connection to the British Empire, which encompasses a significant portion of the globe.

The value of the crown is not just monetary. It holds significant cultural and historical weight. It represents several centuries of royal history and tradition, symbolizing the power and influence of the monarchy. The crown and thrown are not just physical objects but are imbued with a wealth of stories and significance that make them priceless.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Crown and thrown that surround the monarchs of the United Kingdom are not just objects but symbols of the nation's history and identity. They are non-sellable items that hold immense cultural and historical value. Understanding their significance allows us to appreciate the rich heritage and ongoing legacy of the British monarchy.