#18: The Sword of State – British Monarchs (United Kingdom)
The Sword of State has been part of British coronation ceremonies since at least the 17th century. It’s carried before the monarch during state occasions and represents royal authority and justice. The version used today dates largely from the Restoration period after 1660. Richly decorated with gold and symbolic motifs, the sword is kept in the Tower of London and continues to appear in coronation processions.
