Royal Monograms and Cyphers

Monograms are often made by combining the initials of an individual or a company, used as recognizable symbols or logos. A series of uncombined initials is properly referred to as a cypher (e.g. a royal cypher) and is not a monogram.

In modern heraldry, a royal cypher is a monogram-like device of a country’s reigning sovereign, typically consisting of the initials of the monarch’s name and title, sometimes interwoven and often surmounted by a crown. In the case where such a cypher is used by an emperor or empress, it is called an imperial cypher. In the system used by various Commonwealth realms, the title is abbreviated as R for rex or regina (Latin for king and queen). Previously, I stood for imperator or imperatrix (Latin words for emperorand empress). The cypher is displayed on some government buildings, impressed upon royal and state documents, and is used by government departments.

Monograms of the names of monarchs are used as part of the insignia of public organizations in kingdoms, such as on police badges. This indicates a connection to the ruler. However, the royal cypher, so familiar on pillar boxes, is not technically a monogram, since the letters are not combined.

Royal monograms often appear on coins, frequently surmounted by a crown. Countries that have employed this device in the past include Bulgaria, Great Britain, Russia, Sweden and many German states. Today, several Danish coins carry the monogram of Margrethe II, while the current Norwegian 1 Krone coin has the “H5” monogram of Harald V on the obverse.The only countries using the Euro to have a royal monogram as their national identifying markare Belgium and Monaco. In Thailand royal monograms appear on the individual flag for each major royal family member.