How the Chelsea crest has evolved over the years

#3 Birth of the Lion (1953-1985)

The following season saw the birth of the most used Chelsea crest to date. The crest was designed to include many elements that defined the area of Chelsea.

Chelsea crest 1953-1985

The lion in the crest was taken from the Arms of Earl Cadogan. And the staff is that of the Abbot of Westminster whose jurisdiction extended over Chelsea. The Three roses were used to represent the country of England and the two footballs were added to represent the game. The design was inspired by the civic coat of arms of the Metropolitan Borough of Chelsea.

Civic coat of arms of the Metropolitan Borough of Chelsea

This was the first Chelsea crest to be used on the jerseys of players. Due to the complexity of the design, simpler alternate designs were stitched onto the jersey initially. The crest also saw Chelsea winning its first league title in 1955 under Ted Drake.

The famous crest stayed for 33 years until the next Chairman Ken Bates took over the club in 1985.