RWB Auction celebrates its first year with an exclusive collection of royal and naval memorabilia.
RWB Auction is marking its first anniversary with a special sale on Wednesday, 29th January, featuring an exceptional range of royal and naval collectibles. This highly anticipated auction, which includes nearly 2,000 lots, brings together items linked to some of history’s most iconic figures, such as Mary Queen of Scots, the Queen Mother, and the Battle of Trafalgar.
Reflecting on a Successful First Year
RWB Auction opened its doors just one year ago, and in that time, it has already established itself as a leader in the South West auction market. The auction house has sold over £2 million worth of goods, serving more than 2,000 clients. In addition to its numerous successful sales, RWB Auction has hosted several valuation events across the South of England, solidifying its position as a key player in the auction industry.
Steve Bucknell, General Manager of RWB Auction, shared his thoughts on the milestone. “We couldn’t have achieved such success without the trust our clients have placed in us and the engagement from buyers worldwide. We’re excited to carry forward the momentum into 2025, starting with our Antiques and Interiors Sale on 29th January.”
A Glimpse into Royal and Naval History
The upcoming auction features rare items with connections to the Royal Navy and Royal Family, many of which will be of particular interest to collectors of British historical artifacts. These items, consigned by a private seller who purchased them from a Scottish family, are expected to draw high interest from bidders.
Among the standout items are:
- Compass Used by Captain Durham at the Battle of Trafalgar: This early 19th-century white metal cased 16-point compass is inscribed with “Capt P.C. Durham RN HMS Defiance Trafalgar 21st October 1805.” The item, linked to Admiral Durham, who served at Trafalgar, is estimated to sell for at least £1,500.
- Court Page Uniform from the Coronation of Edward VII: Worn by Angus Edward Malise Bontine Cunninghame Graham at the coronation of King Edward VII in 1902, this item is expected to fetch a minimum of £700.
- 16th Century Embroidery by Mary Queen of Scots: This finely worked yellow silk embroidery, reputedly created by Mary Queen of Scots during her imprisonment at Chartley Hall in 1585-86, is estimated to sell for at least £1,000.
- Tortoiseshell Snuff Box with Portrait of Mary Queen of Scots: This 19th-century tortoiseshell box, featuring a miniature portrait of Mary Queen of Scots, is expected to sell for at least £1,000.
- Framed Signed Photograph of the Queen Mother: A signed photograph of Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother), taken by Cecil Beaton in 1939, is estimated to sell for at least £1,000.
A Year of Growth and Success
Gareth Wasp, Head Auctioneer at RWB Auction, expressed his excitement about the year that has passed. “In our first year, we held 26 successful sales and even hosted the Bargain Hunt team twice. We are looking forward to an even more successful 2025, with many exciting auctions ahead.”
Event Details
RWB Auction’s first sale of 2025 will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, 29th January, at 144 High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett. The auction will also be accessible online, allowing bidders from across the world to participate.