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Prince Philip's royal standard decoded – what his official flag represents

Philip was made Duke of Edinburgh shortly before his wedding

prince philip queen 1t
Gemma Strong
Online Digital News Director
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Prince Philip is being laid to rest today in a ceremonial royal funeral at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle.

The Queen's husband is reported to have requested minimal fuss and asked not to lie in state; instead he lay in rest in the private chapel until the day of the service.

MORE: Prince George and Princess Charlotte's family photo with Queen and Prince Philip makes history – here's why

His coffin has been draped in his personal flag, his standard, which represents important elements in his life. HELLO! takes a closer look…

WATCH: Prince Philip's coffin was draped in his personal standard

The flag is split into quarters, with the top left featuring the three lions and red hearts from the Danish coat of arms; Philip was born a prince of both Denmark and Greece, and as such the top right quadrant depicts the white cross from the national flag of Greece.

MORE: Prince Philip's final portrait: secret detail revealed by royal artist

READ: Queen Margrethe of Denmark makes poignant decision following Prince Philip's death

Philip denounced his Greek title and became a British citizen upon his engagement to Princess Elizabeth in 1946 and took on his mother Princess Alice's anglicised name – Mountbatten.

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Prince Philip's official royal standard

The Mountbatten family is therefore also included on the standard, represented by two black 'pales', or stripes, on white.

Finally, the City of Edinburgh is also featured, depicted by a castle, in honour of Philip's title – he became Duke of Edinburgh upon the occasion of his marriage in November 1947.

MORE: Royals will not wear military uniform at Prince Philip's funeral

Along with his personal standard, Philip's naval cap and sword was also laid on his coffin.

prince philip naval uniform

The Duke had a distinguished naval career

Philip's insignia – the medals and decorations awarded to him by the UK and Commonwealth countries - his field marshal's baton, Royal Air Force wings and insignia from Denmark and Greece were displayed on cushions on the altar in St George's Chapel.

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