It's happening right now!

As you may have heard, Queen Elizabeth II of England in the midst of officially celebrating her 70 year rule!

The Queen's "Platinum Jubilee" is an unprecedented year of celebrations that begins now with a four day holiday in the UK.

Why June? Because Queen Elizabeth officially ascended to the throne in June 2, 1953. But that's only 69 years, you say?? Correct. Her coronation took place in June 1953, but she really became Queen in February 6, 1952 when her father, King George VI passed.

Why did it take 16 months for the Queen to be "crowned"? Good question! The coronation took place 16 months after she became Queen because of the tradition that holding a festival such as a coronation was disrespectful during the period of mourning for her father.

Here's the official Jubilee site and we can also recommend a cool collection of online photos from throughout the years.

We can go one better than online with our British Royalty collection which includes authentic LIFE Magazines covering the Queen's ascension to the throne 70 years ago as well as her coronation.

Grab a royal discount in her honor -- $15 off with coupon code: JUBILEE through June 10, 2022 for books and LIFE Magazines.