[imagesource: Netflix]

Thieves have made off with props worth £150 000 (around R3 million) after sneaking the items off the set of Netflix’s The Crown.

So no, the actual crown jewels of the United Kingdom monarchy are not missing, just some rather expensive replicas and antiques.

Production for the extravagant multi-award winning show is underway with the fifth instalment of the series due to air at the end of the year.

Sky News reported that some of the props were taken during an overnight raid on the TV company’s production site near Doncaster last Wednesday.

This was confirmed by Netflix, according to Belfast Telegraph:

A Netflix spokesperson confirmed to the PA news agency that the reports were true, but provided no additional comment.

It is reported that a replica of a rare Fabergé egg, acquired by the Queen’s grandfather George V in 1933, was one of the many items taken.

Something like this:

Image: twunroll.com

At least the real deal is still safe and sound, locked up in the Tower of London, where they have been since 1661.

The thieves were also kind enough to only take the jewels as production was wrapping up.

In the next season, we will see a new all-star cast as they cover events from the late 1990s:

Screen veteran Imelda Staunton takes over from Olivia Colman as the Queen and Lesley Manville will portray Princess Margaret.

Elizabeth Debicki moves into the role of Diana, Princess of Wales, previously played by Emma Corrin.

Diana’s iconic 1995 Panorama interview with Martin Bashir will be at the centre of it all, moving into other events from her later life, too.

It has also been confirmed that there will be a sixth and final season.

While the South Yorkshire Police investigate, antique dealers are urged to keep an eye and ear out for any mention of the stolen props.

[sources:skynews&belfasttelegraph]