25th Anniversary of Coronation 1978

This issue was released on 31st May 1978 and consisted of four stamps celebrating the anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation, designed by Jeffery Matthews.

The coronation Regalia was the subject chosen to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s Coronation. The State Coach, depicted on the 9p value, was completed in 1762 for George III and has been used for each coronation since George IV. It is gilded throughout and eight palm trees form its framework, with the roof surmounted with cherubs holding the Royal Crown. The St. Edwards Crown, depicted on the 10 1/2p, is worn by the sovereign only during the coronation ceremony. Made in 1661 for Charles II, it is set with diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires and pearls with a jewelled cross on the top. The Sovereigns Orb, depicted on the 11p, is a globe of gold circled with a band of precious stones with a great amethyst set beneath a jewelled cross, symbolising the world dominated by the emblem of Christianity. The imperial crow, depicted on the 13p, is worn for state occasions and was originally made for the Coronation of Queen Victoria. It’s delicate framework is encrusted with diamonds and precious stones which include the Black Prince’s Ruby, the Stuart Sapphire and drop pearls known as Queen Elizabeth’s Ear-rings.

As well as all the usual forms of issue, a souvenir book was also released, consisting of a 16 page booklet illustrated with scenes from the Coronation, along with a set of mint stamps sealed on the front cover.

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