In classic antiquity, crowns served as a reward for prowess and a sign of honour and dominion. Athletes, poets, and successful warriors were awarded crown-like wreaths of different forms whereas chiefs of barbarian tribes customarily wore distinctive helmets. In the earliest English coronation ritual, dating back more than 1000 years, the king was invested with a helmet instead of a crown.

Today, crowns continue to be part of the court ceremony in certain countries and enchant many a spectator.