Prince Philip Net Worth
Net Worth: $30 Million
Category: Richest Politicians – Royals
Birthdate: June 10, 1921
Birthplace: Mon Repos, Corfu, Greece
Profession: Soldier, Naval Officer, Military Officer, Colonel, Fleet Admiral, Author
Nationality: United Kingdom
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was a member of the British royal family and the husband of Queen Elizabeth II. At the time of his death on April 9, 2021, Prince Philip had a net worth of $30 million. A man of many roles, Philip was deeply involved in royal duties, a decorated military officer, and an advocate for sports and philanthropy. Despite controversies and moments of unfiltered remarks, he remains an iconic figure in British history.
Early Life
Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark was born on June 10, 1921, on the Greek island of Corfu. He was the youngest child of Prince Andrew of Greece and Denmark and Princess Alice of Battenberg. Born into the House of Glücksburg, Philip was initially in line for the Danish and Greek thrones.
His early life was marked by upheaval during the Greco-Turkish War, leading to his family’s exile from Greece. The British Navy evacuated the royal family, with infant Philip famously carried in a fruit box. The family eventually settled in Paris.
Philip’s childhood was further complicated by the institutionalization of his mother, his father’s relocation to Monte Carlo, and his sisters’ marriages to German aristocrats. Raised primarily in Britain, Philip attended schools in Germany and Scotland, shaping his disciplined character.
Military Career
Philip began his distinguished military career in 1939, enrolling as a cadet at the Royal Naval College. He graduated at the top of his class and quickly rose through the ranks.
- World War II Service:
Philip served aboard the HMS Ramillies, HMS Valiant, and other vessels during pivotal moments, including:- The Battle of Crete
- The Battle of Cape Matapan
- The Allied invasion of Sicily
His bravery earned him the Greek War Cross, and he became one of the youngest First Lieutenants in the Royal Navy at age 21.
Marriage to Queen Elizabeth II
Prince Philip’s relationship with Princess Elizabeth began during her teenage years. In 1946, he sought permission from King George VI to marry Elizabeth, and they wed on November 20, 1947. Before the wedding, Philip renounced his Greek and Danish titles, adopting British citizenship and the title Duke of Edinburgh.
The couple had four children:
- Prince Charles
- Princess Anne
- Prince Andrew
- Prince Edward
Philip supported Elizabeth throughout her reign, taking on the title Prince Consort when she ascended the throne in 1952.
Royal Duties and Retirement
Prince Philip was instrumental in modernizing the monarchy and engaging with public life. His duties included:
- Attending the State Opening of Parliament
- Representing the Crown during tours and state functions
- Advocating for environmental conservation
In 2017, Philip retired from official royal duties at the age of 96 after completing over 22,000 solo public engagements.
Sports and Interests
Philip was a passionate sportsman, with interests including:
- Polo: Initially his primary sport
- Carriage Driving: In the 1970s, Philip helped formalize this as an equestrian event and authored its rulebook.
- Flying: Philip logged over 5,000 pilot hours and was an accomplished yachtsman.
Notable Personality and Remarks
Philip’s wit and candor often drew attention, sometimes sparking controversy. Some of his famous, albeit politically incorrect, quotes include:
- “British women can’t cook.”
- “If it swims and it is not a submarine, the Cantonese will eat it.”
- “You’re too fat to be an astronaut.”
While his remarks were criticized at times, they also revealed a plainspoken and approachable side.
Financial Standing
Prince Philip’s financial independence came from:
- Annuity:
- He received £360,000 annually from British Parliament to cover royal duties.
- This payment was taxable if not used for official purposes.
- Estates and Personal Wealth:
- His net worth of $30 million included private assets and investments.
Legacy
Prince Philip’s contributions extended beyond the monarchy. He spearheaded the Duke of Edinburgh Award, a program that has empowered millions of young people globally.
Controversies and Conspiracies
Philip’s life was not without controversy. Following Princess Diana’s death in 1997, conspiracy theories suggested royal involvement. One prominent theory implicated Philip, though no credible evidence supported these claims.
Death and Final Years
Prince Philip passed away peacefully on April 9, 2021, at Windsor Castle, just two months shy of his 100th birthday. His passing marked the end of a significant chapter in royal history, but his legacy as a steadfast supporter of the Queen and a modernizing force for the monarchy endures.
Conclusion
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was more than a royal consort; he was a military hero, a dedicated public servant, and a man of unique character. His life, marked by duty and service, leaves an indelible mark on the history of the British monarchy.
