Portsmouth has borne its arms, comprising an azure shield bearing a gold star and crescent, for more than 700 years.

In 1970, the Portsmouth Museums Society sponsored a petition to The Earl Marshal for a grant of supporters, crest and badge to complete the city's full achievement.

The mural crown worn by the sea lion refers to the land defences, which surrounded Portsmouth from Elizabethan times until 1862.

Richard's first great seal showed on either side of his head a star with six wavy rays (known as an estoile) above a crescent moon.

Following much careful research, artists F Angello del Cauchferta, MGLC (Spain), and Beryl Hardman, ARCA, of London, illuminated each panel with scenes, both momentous and whimsical, from the period it encompasses.

The chain is worn within the city when performing official civic functions, important ceremonial occasions and also as appropriate at other times, such as opening conferences, fetes and new businesses.

The chain may also be worn when paying visits to such places as schools, churches and the emergency services, at the Lord Mayor's discretion.

Engraved on the back of the badge is the legend: "Purchased by subscription amongst the burgesses and presented to the Worshipful the Mayor of Corporation of the Borough during the Mayoralty of Henry Ford Esq., under a committee composed of G Cressweller Esq.

The second set of robes is scarlet with fur trimming, this is worn on less formal occasions, such as full council meetings.

Both of these robes are worn with a lace jabot and cuffs with white cotton gloves and a feather plumed tricorne hat.

Although the car The Lord Mayor uses has varied over the years, having been at one time a Daimler and presently a Jaguar, the number plate has remained the same, 'BK 1'.

In addition to this they are an ex officio member of several organisations and boards, including The Lord Mayor of Portsmouth's Coronation Homes, named after the post.

A mace was originally a heavy club used as an offensive weapon, but later became a staff of office symbolising authority, with the head often elaborately worked in precious metal or bejewelled.

The Great Mace is silver gilt, similar to several others which Charles II ordered to be made and presented to various corporations that had lost their regalia during the civil wars between his father and Parliament.

The cresting or coronet at the top is composed of Fleur-de-lis and Lozenges alternately within which, on a raised boss, are the Arms of King Charles II.