A letter written by British naval hero Lord Horatio Nelson has seen impressive results at Hansons Auctioneers in the UK (June 30).
The letter sold for an outstanding £54,500 ($82,885), beating its £12,000 high estimate by 354.1%.
 Nelson's handwriting is quite different in this letter, which was written after his right arm was lost |
It was written by the admiral in 1804, after he had lost his right arm at the Battle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where his attack was repelled and he was forced to return to England to recuperate from his injuries.
As such, the letter is written aboard Nelson's flagship, HMS Victory, with his newly trained left hand. It comes just one year before his famous success and death at the Battle of Trafalgar.
Nelson writes to Major James Weir of the Royal Marines. Commending the major, he remarks, "You merit everything which a grateful country could bestow upon your service."
He is also critical of the £200 a year salary of Sir William Darley for his services.
Auctioneer Charles Hanson commented: "Despite the great man having passed away over 200 years ago, the buzz and buoyancy our nation of collectors and Americans have for our greatest maritime hero remains in overdrive."
Paul Fraser Collectibles has a magnificent range of Nelson memorabilia for sale, including signed letters and an authentic lock of his hair. We are also very proud to offer The Trafalgar Collection, which contains a piece of the HMS Victory, Nelson's ensign flag and his hair and handkerchief.
