US EditionFate of ‘hidden’ Stone of Destiny fragments traced by researcher
Research reveals multiple Stone of Destiny fragments were created after 1950 damage; some were gifted to politicians and families and are now treasured heirlooms, historian says.
- On Friday November 7, 2025, Professor Sally Foster of the University of Stirling uncovered the existence and fate of several Stone of Destiny fragments using archival records and interviews.
- During the famous Christmas Day raid, four pro-independence Scottish students removed the Stone from Westminster Abbey and it split when dropped, then Robert Gray oversaw a secret repair producing 34 fragments shortly afterwards.
- Tracked fragments include pieces held by politicians Alex Salmond, Winnie Ewing and Margo MacDonald, one displayed at SNP headquarters, and a fragment gifted to Queensland Museum with an inch-sized piece found last year in SNP storage.
- Authorities chose not to prosecute those holding fragments, citing public interest; the 2018 fragment holder was not prosecuted, though Lord Forsyth of Drumlean called Salmond's piece `stolen property`.
- The Stone's recent public use in King Charles's coronation and relocation to Perth Museum renewed interest and stimulated new studies, while Professor Sally Foster published a theory on the `XXXV` numeral.
16 Articles
16 Articles
True story of Stone of Destiny's missing pieces revealed in extraordinary new research
Researchers believe they may have uncovered the true story behind the missing fragments of Scotland's Stone of Destiny following a new study.The 152kg sandstone block, also known as the Stone of Scone, has long been seen as a symbol of Scottish sovereignty, and has been used in Royal coronations for centuries.Over the centuries, the large stone has endured theft, damage, conquest and repair. But now, researchers believe that dozens of fragments …
Fragments of Stone of Scone tracked down to reveal a hidden history
The Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny, is a treasured relic of history in Great Britain, used for centuries as an accompaniment to the coronation of kings. This 152 kg (335 lb) sandstone block has suffered through a series of thefts and journeys, one of which apparently resulted in a loss of 34 fragments.
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