This precious crown, weighing 1,939 grams, was commissioned by the Community of Reggio Emilia in 1672 to Michele Augusta, a Ferrarese goldsmith working in Reggio Emilia. The crown was donated with the obligation that it remain in perpetuity in the Treasury of the Basilica della Ghiara and be used exclusively as an ornament on the occasion of religious solemnities.

On the reverse of the cross is engraved the inscription: S(enatus) P(opulus) Q(ue) R(egensis) (The Senate and the People of Reggio). The crown was the protagonist of the famous and sumptuous procession that was held on 13 May 1674 in thanksgiving for the protection that the Virgin granted to Reggio Emilia on numerous occasions in that troubled century to the many graces granted. The procession ended with the coronation of the miraculous image of the Madonna.