The British national anthem originated in a patriotic song first performed in 1745.

There is no authorized version of the National Anthem, as the words are a matter of tradition. Additional verses have been added down the years, but these are rarely used. The words used are those sung in 1745, substituting 'Queen' for 'King' where appropriate. On official occasions, only the first verse is usually sung, as follows:

God save our gracious Queen!
Long live our noble Queen!
God save the Queen!
Send her victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us,
God save the Queen.

More information on the history of the national anthem, as well as the words to other verses, can be found on the official web site of the British Monarchy.