The Making of a Monarch Book by The Royal Collection

A detailed, accessible account of the ancient traditions and symbolism surrounding the accession and coronation of a new British monarch. His Majesty King Charles III succeeded to the throne on 8 September 2022, immediately after the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-serving monarch. For most of us, this historic change of reign was the first in living history. But what really happens when one monarch succeeds another?

This official publication charts an extraordinary period of transition that began with the proclamation of the new reign across the United Kingdom and King Charles’s first address to the nation. Sombre moments followed, with Their Majesties leading the nation’s mourning through to the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. Subsequently, the new reign was marked by changes to coins, banknotes, cyphers and stamps, the first State Visits at home and abroad, and the continuation of long-held fixtures in the royal calendar, such as the much-loved Christmas Broadcast.

In these pages, you will discover what went on behind the scenes as the nation prepared for the Coronation as well as the stories and symbolism behind the regalia, the music and the rituals that were used for the ceremony. With spectacular photography from the day itself, this book provides a lasting record of the making of a monarch and an insight into the ways in which the Coronation reflected the values underpinning the new reign – the commitment of The King and Queen to the values of sustainability, inclusivity and public service.

Hardback

120 pages

21 x 25 cm