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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
National
Caroline Davies

Charles III’s coronation: why a spoon and not a crown carries more weight

St Edward's crown is on display during a service to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey, London, Britain - 04 Jun 2013
St Edward's crown is only ever used for the moment of crowning and weighs nearly 2.28kg (5lbs). Photograph: REX Shutterstock

Jewel-encrusted crowns, swords and sceptres may glitter the brightest at Charles III’s coronation, but of all regalia the most significant from a historical perspective may be a simple spoon.

When the 2,000 guests witness the crowning at Westminster Abbey on 6 May, the regalia – sacred objects symbolising monarchical duties and powers – will play the part they have played in this same theatre for almost 1,000 years.

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