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Estimate

£10,000 - £15,000

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Of Historic British Monarchy / Royal Family Interest. An 18ct yellow gold engine-turned snuff box of rounded rectangular form, the piano hinged cover inscribed to interior ‘This box belonged (sic) to H.R.H The Duke of Sussex and is the one which he commonly used, it was bought at the sale of the Royal Duke’s effects in July 1843 by James Foster’, 3cm high, 9 x 3.5cm, 116g

Prince Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex was the sixth son of King George III and one of the most independent-minded members of the Georgian royal family. Born in 1773, he became the first Duke of Sussex in 1801 and was renowned for his liberal political views, supporting parliamentary reform, Catholic emancipation, the abolition of the slave trade, and greater rights for religious minorities. Unlike his brothers, he did not pursue a military career and instead devoted himself to intellectual, scientific, and charitable interests, serving as President of the Royal Society from 1830 to 1838. His significance lies in his role as a progressive royal who frequently challenged convention and championed social reform, earning a reputation as one of the most enlightened and unconventional princes of his age.

Provenance: The original sale referenced was undertaken by Christie, Manson & Woods and was divided into several highly anticipated auctions across the summer of that year. It is documented that many items from the sale were acquired by Prince Albert (beloved husband of Queen Victoria) and are today preserved in the Royal Collection Trust.