Queen Victoria mourning outfit beats estimate by 210%

A complete mourning outfit worn by Queen Victoria in the 1880s has sold for $9,720

A mourning outfit worn by Queen Victoria has sold for £6,200, trouncing its estimate in the process.

As we predicted last month, the outfit far surpassed its £1,000-2,000 valuation at the June 30 auction in the UK.

Now heading to the US, a country Queen Victoria never visited

That's due in large part to the enduring fascination with Queen Victoria and the royal family in general, allied with the striking nature of the costume - quintessential Queen Victoria.

The 1880s black ensemble consisted of a silk taffeta and bomberdine bodice, coupled with a matching 43 inch waist grosgrain skirt.

There was also a black straw hat with mourning veil, mounted with an ostrich feather, while a pair of silk bloomers and a chemise also featured, both monogrammed with VR for "Victoria Regina".

Rounding off the look was a pair of circa 1885 leather boots with elasticated sides.

Victoria adopted the mourning look for the last 40 years if her life, following the 1861 death of her husband Prince Albert to typhoid fever.

Purchased by the consigner at a house sale in the 1970s, it sold to a US buyer, evidence of the global appeal of royal memorabilia.

Auctioneer Charles Hanson told local newspaper the Derby Telegraph: "We had telephone bidders from Malta, London, New York, California and Philadelphia.

"It sold to a New York lady who was a big fan of the royal family. It's wonderful to give items that speak volumes about history a great send-off."

Investors looking to capitalise on the worldwide appeal of Britain's longest reigning monarch can purchase this Queen Victoria signature on an appointment letter today - available for under £1,000.

A pair of Queen Victoria's white silk bloomers made £9,375 in 2011, while a pair of the current British monarch's undergarments sold for £11,390 in May.

Recent and related articles

·  Duchess Kate Middleton's hats beat estimate by 131.2% | 27 June 2012

·  Edward VIII's pocket watch brings $23,800 in UK | 20 June 2012

·  Investing in royal autographs | 20 June 2012

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Images: Hansons