King Charles III’s coronation: 7 Christian elements to look for Page 3

The Ampulla and Coronation Spoon, which was used at Queen Elizabeth II's Coronation in 1953, is displayed during a multi-faith reception at Lambeth Palace on February 15, 2012, in London, England. | Matt Dunham/WPA Pool/Getty Images

2. The anointing involves using the oldest relic

The British monarchy has withstood abdications, uprisings and countless wars, yet a relic from the turbulent medieval era remains — a modest silver-gilt spoon, which will play a significant role in the forthcoming coronation of King Charles III.

It will be used in the coronation service’s most sacred moment, which is the anointing of the monarch, according to the British newspaper.

First documented in the Royal Collection over six centuries ago in 1349, the coronation spoon has been used in every British monarch’s crowning ceremony since James I in 1603.

The ceremonial spoon is thought to have been provided to either Henry II or Richard I and stands as the sole surviving example of royal goldsmiths’ work from that century.

The Royal Collection Trust, a charity responsible for preserving and showcasing a vast array of royal artifacts, oversees the spoon’s care.

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