Some considerable time ago I read the conjecture that at least some the 'super human' size swords were not meant as weapons but as indicators of status, and they would be sheathed or covered only at the death of their holder, uncovered again once the successor was confirmed.
The swords would be carried in procession, some even having their own carriage or litter to travel in, and be set up at each stop along the way if the holder travelled for his duties.
At the recent coronation Penny Mordaunt carried the Sword of State and the Sword of Offering which were important parts of the ceremony and carried deep meaning.
The Sword of Offering is a normal sized sword, I think kept by Westminster Abby and it is redeemed by the payment of a fee - one hundred silver coins, it that case the new issue of 50pence coins which carry Charles' image. Maybe a reminder of the role of fidei defensor which the monarch holds.
I have a good but strange memory for information on the most peculiar things
I presume to dictate to no man what he shall eat or drink or wherewithal he shall be clothed."
-- The Hon. Stuart Ruaidri Erskine, The Kilt & How to Wear It, 1901.
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