Features

Stand-out lots on offer in upcoming summer auctions and from dealers.

This pair of Mickey and Minnie Mouse toys has been on quite an adventure.

The numerous coronations offer a chance to buy more esoteric objects at auction.

This Georgian enamel and rock crystal mourning ring was formerly owned by Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon.

By repute this 15oz silver chamber stick and snuffer with glass hurricane shade was a gift from Queen Victoria to her personal attendant and favourite John Brown (1826-83).

Throughout the 20th century toy manufacturers produced commemorative models, with the coronation coach a particularly popular subject.

Joseph Edgar Boehm (1834-9) was commissioned to make a statue to mark the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1887.

Perhaps the most famous 21st century image of Queen Elizabeth II is the photographic portrait taken by Canadian artist Chris Levine (b.1960) showing the monarch with her eyes closed.

“It is quite pathetic to see the Prince and Freda. His love is so obvious and undisguisable.”

Special look at the cross-over market for coronation and commemorative items

A presentation diamond brooch given by Queen Elizabeth II to the Duchess of Norfolk for assistance prior to her coronation in 1953 is to be offered by Mayfair auction house Noonans on June 14, estimated at £4000-6000.

Copies of royal portraits from across the centuries are something that always seems to catch the eye when you flick through (or scroll through) the reams of pictures listed in auction catalogues.

Goldsmiths’ Company librarian Eleni Bide on commemorative hallmarks

Isle of Wight antiques dealer Kevin Morris specialises in pottery including early English delftware and Italian maiolica.

English jubilees, coronations and investitures have long been occasions not only for a national celebration but also for manufacturers to cash in with an array of souvenirs. In this special report we turn the spotlight on royal items offered and sold by dealers and auction houses

Arguably the most famous portraits of an English king are Hans Holbein the Younger’s (c.1497-1543) depictions of Henry VIII.

An historically significant document dating from 1785 and a previously unrecorded campaign handbill concerning the election that saw Thomas Jefferson become the third US president were highlights of a February 17 sale at Freeman’s (26/20/12% buyer’s premium).

Negotiating the sometimes complex world of prints by the 17th century Dutch Master

Alchemical work is best-seller as Vishniac lots create a valuable mix in the saleroom

Seldom does the stereotypical image of the rare book specialist fit the current generation of dealers and auctioneers. Members of the 21st century book trade come from all walks of life with their interests and areas of specialisation just as varied. ATG speaks to five members of the trade to discover their route into rare books.