Antique 1901 sterling silver anointing spoon 23cm made by Gourdel Vales in Birmingham

Stunning 
Antique 1901 sterling silver anointing spoon 
maker mark: GV&Co - Gourdel Vales & Co 
British Empire sterling silver hallmark - Birmingham Anchor, lion passant, b (1901) 
weight: 67.1 g 
length: approx 23 cm 

Coronation regalia spoon  

Story:

This is Original Antique spoon as well it is a replica spoon of the anointing spoon which is part of the coronation regalia. The original spoon (held at the Tower of London) is made of gold and dates back to the 13th century, making it the oldest coronation piece. In the coronation ceremony Holy oil is poured from the Ampulla, which is in the form of a gold eagle, into the spoon. The spoon is then applied by the officiating Bishop or Archbishop to the new sovereigns head, breast and palms. Original coronation regalia - spoon dimensions: 26.7 x 5.1 cm.