The Livery Collars of Edward IV

The use of ornamental collars as a sign of chivalry or service seems to date back to the 14th century. When Edward IV seized the English throne in 1460, he introduced a totally different design of collar. The new design had a religious basis, and helped perpetuate the legend of the Wars of the Roses. Edward chose alternating suns and roses as the design for his collar.

Eighty-four examples of Edward IV's collars of suns and roses have been found in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Belgium.