Iconic Photos From Start Of Queen Elizabeth's Record 68-Year Reign

Jun 08, 2020 by apost team

Britain's beloved monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, was officially crowned in 1953, but she actually became queen a year prior to that, after the death of her father, King George, on February 6th, 1952. The 94-year-old queen has lived through 13 British prime ministers as well as 13 United States presidents. Because she is currently the longest-serving monarch in British history, let's take a look back at some prized photos from the beginning of her reign: Coronation Day. 

In this photo from 1953, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip are seen waving from the Buckingham Palace in London. This was following the Queen's official coronation at Westminster Abbey. The monarch is pictured smiling widely next to her husband. 

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Queen Elizabeth II and The Duke of Edinburgh were transported from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey via the Gold Stage Coach. The coach was pulled by eight gray gelding horses. Here the two are pictured still at Buckingham Palace rather than Westminster Abbey. 

According to The Royal Family website, royal coronations have been held at Westminster Abbey since 1066, making the Queen's coronation a part of a 900 year-long tradition. However, one thing was special about Queen Elizabeth II's coronation: it was the first coronation to be televised. The historic event was watched by 27 million people in the UK alone, and by many millions more all around the world. 

Queen Elizabeth II was the thirty-ninth Sovereign to be crowned at Westminster Abbey and the religious ceremony of coronation lasted around three hours. For the last 1,000 years, the service has remained essentially the same, following royal protocol and processions. 

In the photo below, her Majesty is seen Grenadier Guards uniform. This was for her first Trooping the Colour as Monarch in 1953. 

What do you think about the Queen's record-breaking reign? Let us know your thoughts and be sure to pass this on to other royal fans!