In this quote from Shakespeare's "King Henry VI, Part 3," the speaker asserts that true royalty and nobility come from within rather than from external symbols of power and wealth. The reference to a crown signifies not a physical ornament adorned with precious jewels, but rather the inner peace and satisfaction found in one's heart. This unadorned crown represents a state of contentment that is often elusive for those in positions of authority.
The speaker contrasts this personal sense of fulfillment with the lives of kings who might possess great riches and status but lack true happiness. This reflection emphasizes that genuine contentment is rare and not dependent on material possessions or outward appearances. Shakespeare suggests that a rich inner life offers a more profound sense of royalty than any visible adornment on the head could provide.