The British monarchy has a long and storied history, with each new sovereign ascending to the throne in a grand and opulent ceremony. Coronations are a time-honored tradition, symbolizing the transfer of power and the continuity of the royal lineage. This article delves into Britain’s eight most expensive coronation ceremonies, exploring the unique features and extravagances that set them apart.
From the regalia’s splendor to the festivities’ intricate details, these coronations have captured the world’s imagination and showcased the pomp and pageantry of the British monarchy.
8 King William IV – $4.4 Million
King William IV’s coronation in 1831 was relatively modest compared to his predecessors. William IV had to be persuaded to have a coronation, leading to minimal spending on the ceremony, which led to it being known as the ‘Penny Coronation’ as per Westminster Abbey. However, it still came with a hefty price tag of $4.4 million in today’s currency. During the ceremony, the King donned the traditional St. Edward’s Crown at Westminster Abbey. A grand procession through the streets of London marked the event, with thousands of spectators lining the route to catch a glimpse of their new monarch. Unique to his coronation, King William IV chose to forgo the traditional banquet, opting for a more intimate gathering with close friends and family.
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7 King Edward VII – $5.7 Million
The coronation of King Edward VII in 1902 was a grand spectacle, costing an estimated $5.7 million in today’s currency. Dignitaries worldwide attended a lavish banquet at Buckingham Palace to mark the event. The festivities also included a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating the night sky over London. A notable feature of this coronation was the inclusion of representatives from the British colonies, reflecting the growing importance of the empire during King Edward VII’s reign.
6 Queen Victoria – $7.6 Million
Queen Victoria’s coronation in 1838 was a momentous occasion, as she became the first female monarch to rule Britain since Queen Anne. The ceremony held at Westminster Abbey incurred a staggering cost of $7.6 million. The event was marked by a royal procession through London, with the streets adorned with colorful banners and decorations. Queen Victoria rode in an open carriage in a break from tradition, allowing the public to see her more clearly and fostering a connection with her subjects.
5 King George V – $21.5 Million
The coronation of King George V in 1911 was a truly extravagant affair, with a price tag of $21.5 million in today’s currency, according to Statista. The ceremony occurred at Westminster Abbey, with the King wearing the newly crafted Crown of India. Over 50,000 troops from the British Empire featured in a lavish procession through the streets of London, marking the event. The celebrations culminated in a grand banquet at Buckingham Palace, attended by royalty and dignitaries worldwide. A unique aspect of this coronation was the Delhi Durbar, a separate ceremony in India to commemorate King George V’s accession to the throne as Emperor of India.
4 King George IV – $25.9 Million
King George IV’s coronation in 1821 was one of the most expensive in British history, costing a staggering $25.9 million in today’s currency. The King wore the magnificent St. Edward’s Crown during the ceremony held at Westminster Abbey. The celebrations included a lavish banquet with over 2,000 guests at Carlton House. George IV’s coronation event is infamous for the scandalous barring of his estranged wife, Queen Caroline, from attending the ceremony, as per The Collector.
3 King George VI – $32.1 Million
The coronation of King George VI in 1937 was a momentous occasion, as he ascended to the throne following the abdication of his brother, King Edward VIII. The ceremony held at Westminster Abbey had an estimated expenditure of $32.1 million in today’s currency. The King wore the Imperial State Crown, adorned with over 3,000 precious stones. In a touching display of solidarity, King George VI’s wife, Queen Elizabeth, chose to wear a simple white dress to the ceremony, reflecting the nation’s somber mood during the Great Depression.
2 Queen Elizabeth II – $43.8 Million
Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953 was a historic event, as it marked the beginning of her long and illustrious reign. As per History, the ceremony held at Westminster Abbey cost a staggering $43.8 million in today’s currency. The young Queen wore the St. Edward’s Crown, which was made in 1661. For the first time, the event broadcasted on television, enabling millions worldwide to witness the spectacle. A standout feature of this coronation was the inclusion of a multi-faith service, reflecting the growing diversity of the British Commonwealth.
1 King Charles III – $125 Million
The recent coronation of King Charles III, the current Prince of Wales, is rumored to be the most expensive in British history, with an estimated cost of a whopping $125 million. The lavish ceremony occurred at Westminster Abbey, with the King wearing the historic St. Edward’s Crown. A grand procession through London, featuring representatives from across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, marked the event. In a nod to modernity, the ceremony incorporated elements of sustainability and environmental consciousness, with King Charles reusing old ceremonial clothes instead of tailoring new ones.
These coronation ceremonies have showcased the creativity, resourcefulness, and sheer spectacle that have come to define the British monarchy. From the modest celebrations of King William IV to the sheer extravagance of King Charles III, each coronation has been unique, reflecting the changing times and the evolving nature of the monarchy.
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Sources – History, The Collector, Statista, Westminster Abbey
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