Is this the King's earliest autograph?

I'm trying to solve a puzzle. Perhaps you can help me.

I currently have a piece of Royal memorabilia on my desk.

It's almost 150 years old.

And it's utterly unique.

It could also be rather important.

My research suggests that it is. And if I'm correct, it offers a superb opportunity for anyone who collects British Royal history.

It comes from the hand of this man.

King George V.

Paul Fraser Collectibles | King George V (1865 - 1936)King George V (1865 - 1936).

Grandson of Queen Victoria. The first monarch of the House of Windsor.

The King who led Britain through the dark days of WWI.

George was a devoted father and husband, highly respected and well-loved throughout his 26-year reign.

He was seen as hardworking, dutiful and down-to-earth (for a King, at least). During the celebrations for his Silver Jubilee in 1935 he remarked:

"I cannot understand it, after all I am only a very ordinary sort of fellow."


George V was also one of history's most celebrated collectors.

His passion was rare stamps, and he built the world-renowned Royal Philatelic Collection.

So he'd be delighted that his memorabilia is highly collectible today.

He also famously disliked modern art.

So he would no doubt be amused that the piece I'm about to show you is now so valuable.

A Royal childhood remembered.

These charming drawings are the work of George V.These charming drawings are the work of George V.

Although he was just 12 years old at the time.

They were drawn by the young prince in 1877, and have been carefully preserved in remarkable condition.

The two pictures are drawn in pencil and watercolour, on a sheet of headed paper from the former Royal residence Marlborough House.

The first depicts a pair of cartoon figures at sea on a purple sailboat.

And the second features a young boy stealing apples, chased by a guard in uniform with a sword.

Do these scenes spring from George's imagination? Or are they inspired by his own childhood adventures? We can only speculate.

But the sailing scene is certainly noteworthy, given that just one month after he drew it George joined the cadet training ship HMS Britannia and began his 15-year career in the navy.

The sheet measures approximately 4.5 inches by 7.25 inches.

It features slight wear to the left edge and a vertical fold, but is otherwise in fine condition.

And when you turn it over, it reveals something even more interesting.

The King's earliest autograph?

The young Prince has signed his name in pencil on the reverse.The young Prince has signed his name in pencil on the reverse.
 
It's inscribed “From George to Dear Mr Dalton, August 19, 1877.

It's by far the earliest George V signature I've ever seen.

And I can find no records of an earlier example offered for sale in the past 25 years.

So I believe it could well be the earliest in private hands.

Which would make it a truly significant piece for your collection.

The provenance is equally significant, as it comes from a source close to the heart of the Royal family.

The drawings were originally a gift to John Neale Dalton (1839 – 1931).

Dalton served as a chaplain to their grandmother Queen Victoria, and a tutor to both George and his older brother Prince Albert Victor.

He was a loyal member of the Royal household, and was held in great affection by the family for over 60 years.

From the hand of a Princess.

Paul Fraser Collectibles | A second page of artwork signed by George's younger sister, Princess Victoria.But Prince George isn't the only young artist at work here.

You'll also receive a second page of artwork signed by George's younger sister, Princess Victoria.

She was just 9 when she painted her own scene, featuring two cartoon figures with huge noses.

And she adds her own inscription to Dalton in colourful crayon.

As a child Victoria was described as "a lively, mischievous girl ... smart, tall and elegant”, and she kept a tame pigeon as a pet, which she took for walks in a basket.

She also had a close, warm relationship with her brother that lasted through their life.

When Victoria died in 1935, George said "How I will miss our daily phone calls. Nobody had such a sister as I had."

The page is on the same headed paper, and bears the same date, suggesting George and Victoria made these pictures together.

As such, this pair of artworks is a lovely symbol of that family bond.

(Which isn't always guaranteed when it comes to the Royals...)

Much-loved by collectors.

Paul Fraser Collectibles | Royal childhood artworksRoyal childhood artworks have always been popular with collectors.

Two very recent sales show just how popular.

In April 2023 a collection of sketches by a young Queen Elizabeth II and her sister Princess Margaret sold at auction for £11,646, more than ten times their high estimate.

And in June a pair of drawings by a six-year-old King Charles III sold for £59,800 – six times their top estimate.

They're exactly the kind of items Royal collectors love to own.

Because they offer a more personal view which is often hidden behind the strictures of Royal protocol.

And in a world of mass-produced commemorative items...

These pieces of authentic Royal memorabilia are completely unique.

A unique Royal treasure for your collection.

Paul Fraser Collectibles | Royal childhood artworksPieces like this are more commonly found in the Royal archives.

Like most childhood mementos, they simply get lost over time.

So the few that survive are very special indeed.


Collectors like yourself rarely have the chance to own them.

So it's a real pleasure to offer you these Royal artworks today.

The sailboat drawing in particular offers a nice link to George's youthful adventures around the world as a member of the Royal Navy.

And then there's the question of the signature.

This could very well be the earliest George V autograph in private hands.

The oldest autograph from the Royal House of Windsor.

Which is a rather splendid thing to have in your collection.

You can acquire these historic artworks today for just £2,950.

They come with a Lifetime Guarantee of Authenticity.

And delivery is free and fully insured.

Purchase these drawings now

A final word.

These artworks are also covered by our 28-day 'No Quibble' returns policy.

If they don't fit your collection for any reason, you can send them back.

It's as simple as that.

But I'm certain that once you receive them, you'll treasure these rare Royal artworks for years to come.

So don't miss out. Buy them now or contact me to reserve them ASAP.

You can email me at info@paulfrasercollectibles.com.

Or call me on +44 (0) 1534 639 998.

As always, I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next time,

Paul Fraser.

P.S. This unusual piece has a wonderful history, and will perfectly complement your existing Royal autographs. So don't miss this unique opportunity.

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