From St Edward to the Koh‑i‑Noor: The Political Story of Britain’s Crown Jewels

This episode unpacks how the Crown jewels—from early anointing spoons to the modern Imperial State Crown—have functioned as material expressions of sovereignty, political legitimacy and imperial ambition. It looks at key moments such as the melting of Tudor regalia, the acquisition of the Koh‑i‑Noor diamond, and the daring 1671 heist by Colonel Thomas Blood, revealing how these objects have been contested symbols rather than mere adornment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices