King George VI
The reluctant king who wore the Imperial State Crown through war and duty.
He was the father of Queen Elizabeth II and the husband of Queen Elizabeth (The Queen Mother). His reign was defined by the abdication crisis of his brother, Edward VIII, and the Second World War. The Imperial State Crown, made in 1937 for his coronation, remains in use today at coronations and State Openings of Parliament. It is adorned with 3,170 precious stones, including the 317-carat Cullinan II diamond, the Stuart Sapphire, and the Black Prince's Ruby.
- Role
- Monarch of the United Kingdom
- Affiliation
- British Royal Family
- Status
- Deceased
- Key Relationship
- Husband of Queen Elizabeth (The Queen Mother)
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
For his coronation in 1937, a faithful copy of Queen Victoria's 1838 crown was made by the jewellers Garrard & Co., as the original had fallen into a poor state of repair. This new Imperial State Crown was adorned with 3,170 precious stones, including the 317-carat Cullinan II diamond, the Stuart Sapphire, and the Black Prince's Ruby. The crown's inner headband was later adjusted and its arches lowered by 1 inch in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth II. The empty frame of Victoria's crown survives in the Royal Collection, stored away and not typically displayed, minus its monde and cross which now sit on the current crown.
In Their Own Story
At the State Opening of Parliament in 1845, the Duke of Argyll was carrying the crown before Queen Victoria when it fell off the cushion and broke. Victoria wrote in her diary, 'it was all crushed and squashed like a pudding that had sat down.' Victoria had a small crown made in 1870, which resembled the Tudor Crown, declining to wear the 1838 crown which she found heavy and uncomfortable. In 1909, the larger crown was altered to accommodate the 317-carat Cullinan II diamond, also known as the Second Star of Africa. The Imperial State Crown is 31.5 cm tall and weighs 1.06 kg, and has four fleurs-de-lis alternating with four crosses pattée, supporting two arches topped by a monde and cross pattée. Its purple velvet cap is trimmed with ermine. The frame is made of gold, silver and platinum, and decorated with 2,868 diamonds, 269 pearls, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, and 5 rubies.
Reader's Guide
The Imperial State Crown is worn by the monarch on leaving Westminster Abbey at the end of his or her coronation. It is usually also worn at State Openings of Parliament, although Elizabeth II wore a hat in March 1974, June 2017 and December 2019 after snap general elections, and in May 2021; and, in October 2019 she wore the State Diadem, while the Imperial State Crown was carried beside her. Usually, it is taken to the Palace of Westminster under armed guard in its own carriage and placed in the Robing Room, where the monarch dons the Robe of State and puts on the crown before giving the speech to Parliament. If a State Opening occurs before a coronation, the crown is placed on a cushion beside the monarch. In 1689, one week after being proclaimed king, William III wore his crown in Parliament to pass the Crown and Parliament Recognition Act 1689. When not in use, the Imperial State Crown is on public display in the Jewel House at the Tower of London.
Did You Know?
- The Imperial State Crown was made in 1937 for the coronation of King George VI.
- The crown is adorned with 3,170 precious stones, including the 317-carat Cullinan II diamond.
- The Black Prince's Ruby on the front cross is actually a large red spinel.
- The crown's inner headband was adjusted and its arches lowered by 1 inch in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth II.
- When not in use, the Imperial State Crown is on public display in the Jewel House at the Tower of London.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is King George VI?
He is the father of Queen Elizabeth II who ascended to the British throne in 1936 following his brother Edward VIII's abdication. The series portrays him as a reluctant leader who struggled with a severe speech impediment while guiding the nation.
What are King George VI's powers and role?
As the Monarch of the United Kingdom, he served as the ceremonial head of state during a critical period including World War II. His role involved representing the country and supporting the government, though his actual political power was limited by constitutional conventions.
How does King George VI's story end?
His storyline concludes with his death in 1952, which occurs shortly after he is shown in the final moments of his life in the show. This event leads to the succession of his daughter, Elizabeth, as the new Queen.
Why is King George VI important?
He is significant for stabilizing the monarchy after the abdication crisis and maintaining public morale during the war. His personal battle with a stammer is highlighted as a symbol of overcoming adversity for the sake of his country.
Who is King George VI's wife?
He is married to Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, who is known in the show and history as Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. She is the mother of the current Queen Elizabeth II and provides crucial support to him throughout his reign.
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