The history of the iconic Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the British monarch since 1837, including our very own Charles III and Elizabeth II.

It is quite simply one of the most iconic buildings in the world. From state visits to the daily Changing of the Guard, to the annual garden parties and national celebrations; everyone recognises this picturesque building.

But, did you know that Buckingham Palace was initially called Buckingham House?

Read on to explore the history of this great palace, which features on a brand-new UK £5 coin

Buckingham House – 1761

In 1761, George III purchased Buckingham House for his wife, Queen Charlotte. Close to St James’ Palace, it proved the perfect home for the Queen who gave birth to 14 out of her 15 children there.

But, with the accession of George IV in 1820, he decided that he wanted to reconstruct the house eventually agreeing with his architect to turn it into a palace.

At the time, George IV told parliament that the reconstruction would cost near to £450,000 – that’s about £55 million today!

The house was doubled in size, adding new suites and state rooms, and the facing was curated from Bath stone, echoing a French neo-classical influence.

In fact, the rooms that were designed over 200 years ago stand the same in the current day.

Queen Victoria – 1837

It wasn’t until 1837, when Queen Victoria ascended the throne, that Buckingham Palace became the official residence of a British monarch.

She was the first monarch to leave from the palace for her coronation, but her marriage to Prince Albert presented some issues. Namely that the palace didn’t have enough nurseries. It therefore went through another construction phase – redesigning some of the inside alongside updating the frontage after soot had ruined it throughout the industrial revolution.

Present Day – 2024

Nowadays, Buckingham Palace is the administrative headquarters of the monarch, as well as the Sovereign’s residence. The palace has 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms, 52 bedrooms and 78 bathrooms.

Every year more than 50,000 people visit as guests for state banquets, lunches, dinners, receptions and garden parties.

image 1 - The history of the iconic Buckingham Palace

Credit: Royal Collection Trust https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace

Brand-New UK £5 Coin

To honour the incredible history and sentiment of this incredible British landmark, a brand-new UK £5 coin has been issued.

But stocks are extremely limited, especially of the rare Silver Piedfort edition of which only 800 are available worldwide.

Click here to view the range and secure your memento today >>

image 2 - The history of the iconic Buckingham Palace

Striking a coin for his father: The ‘Mad’ Piper of D-Day

John Millin honours his father, Piper Bill Millin, in a poignant tribute by striking a 50p coin for the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.

Stay tuned for the full exclusive interview coming TUESDAY.

By Royal Decree: FIRST EVER Royalty Ten Pence Coin Series Officially Approved

The FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND Ten Pence Coin Series has been OFFICIALLY APPROVED by His Majesty the King and Buckingham Palace.

Released by Jersey, the BRAND NEW Kings and Queens Ten Pence Coin Collection will follow the journey of the crown in Great Britain, recounting the reign of each monarch along the way.

The FIRST EVER Royalty 10p Series

From William the Conqueror to King Charles III, each limited edition coin in this impressive series will feature a full colour, original portrait of one of Great Britain’s monarchs by illustrator Rudolf Farkas.

Watch below to find out more about this exciting numismatic first…


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AT The Kings And Queens 10p Collection Images 12 1024x386 - By Royal Decree: FIRST EVER Royalty Ten Pence Coin Series Officially Approved

And collecting 10p coins has never been easier! Every four weeks, you’ll receive two BRAND NEW Brilliant Uncirculated Colour Ten Pence Coins for £20 (+p&p) with a full, 30 Day Money Back Guarantee and no obligation to continue collecting. You can cancel your subscription at any time.

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