These are the frontline workers being honoured with a coronation medal
King Charles III's coronation is just one day away, and as well as finding out how to tune into the event, many of us are busy making preparations for our coronation parties. Others, meanwhile, are taking the time to clue up on the historic importance of the various elements that make up the coronation, such as the Stone of Destiny and the coronation medal.
So, what actually is the coronation medal? And, will King Charles get one when he's crowned on 6 May at Westminster Abbey? Here's everything you need to know about the coronation medal...
What is the coronation medal?
The coronation medal is a medal given to the monarch when they are crowned, a tradition dating back centuries. According to the National Army Museum, "medals have been struck to commemorate the coronation of every British monarch since King Edward VI in 1547." However, the tradition of giving said medals to those attending the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey didn't begin until the coronation of King James I in 1603.
The number of coronation medals made has varied enormously from monarch to monarch, and they have also been minted in a variety of sizes and metals, including gold.
Most recently, Queen Elizabeth II was given a golden medal at her coronation in 1953. This featured a portrait of the monarch on one side and Her Majesty's cypher on the other. The accompanying ribbon had red, blue and white stripes.
To commemorate the coronation of the Queen, around 130,000 official medals were struck. In addition to the one given to Her Majesty herself, the medals were issued to chosen members of the royal household, the government, the Armed Forces and others in public service from Britain and the Commonwealth.
Will King Charles III get a coronation medal?
A medal has been made to mark the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla. The medal is made of nickel silver and features the royal cypher on one side and images of the King and Queen Consort on the other. It also has a ribbon, made up of red, white and blue stripes – like the Union Jack. See a photo of the coronation medal here.
Who else will get a coronation medal?
As well as Charles and Camilla – and likely those in attendance at the coronation service – it has been confirmed that more than 400,000 people are to receive a medal in recognition of their contribution to the King's coronation.
Recipients of the special coronation medal will include all police officers, ambulance workers, choristers and military personnel working at the historic event, as well as serving emergency workers, prison staff and members of the armed forces with more than five years of service. Living recipients of the George Cross or Victoria Cross will also receive a coronation medal.
Head here for everything you need to know about King Charles III's coronation.
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