The second crown was created upon the decree of the Assembly of Notables in 1863 for the Second Mexican Empire.

The crown of the First Mexican Empire was made for Emperor Agustín I in 1822, and it can be seen in many of his portraits.

The second Imperial Crown of Mexico, created during the Second Mexican Empire for Emperor Maximilian I (his consort was Charlotte of Belgium, known as Empress Carlota), who reigned from 1864 to 1867, is better documented.

The original crown was destroyed during the ensuing fighting and victory of the Mexican republic, but replicas remain on display.

However, since Napoleon III was the main power behind the Second Mexican Empire, and as an extension of the Second French Empire, the Mexican crown also used the half-arches and eagles on the circlet on the front, back and sides from the crown of Napoleon III.