Neil Marsden visited HMS MONMOUTH during her Cardiff visit in late April 2009. Neil comments that the only overall view he could secure was the stern shot left but this shows a couple of the famous emblems of the ship's unique status in the RN

The ship is known as the 'Black Duke' in recognition of James Scott, Duke of Monmouth allegedly the illegitimate son of Charles II. On Charles' death he was succeeded by James II as a consequence of which Monmouth led an unsuccessful revolt 'The Monmouth Rebellion', he was captured and executed in 1685.

Following the rebellion Monmouth's title and coat of arms were 'blacked' but later following the succession of King William, his status as a protestant 'hero' was affirmed.

Unlike any other Royal Naval vessel, the ship's name on 'Monmouth's' hull is painted black instead of the normal red, she also flies a plain black flag, both visible in the photograph. It will be noted even the gangway 'canvas' and the traditional gangway lifebelt are similarly in black. The next view from the forecastle shows the Mk8 4.5"  Mod.1 gun

The ship's Battle Honours on a beautifully carved wooden plaque which hangs close by the Officer's Wardroom. The present vessel is the seventh to bear the name and has the distinction of the greatest number of battle honours of any vessel currently serving in the fleet.