Coat that saved Titanic stewardess to auction

The fur coat Titanic survivor Mabel Bennett wore as she escaped the sinking ship comes to auction this month.

The relic of the disaster could make as much as £80,000 ($100,000) when it auctions at Henry Aldridge and Son's sale in Devizes, UK on April 22.

Mabel Bennett coat

Lamb's wool kept Bennett warm

The first class stewardess wore the "beaver lamb" fur coat as she escaped into Lifeboat 5, the second lifeboat to depart the stricken vessel. It kept her warm during the hours at sea before the Carpathia rescued survivors in the morning.

It has wonderful provenance – a factor that will enhance its appeal to bidders. It resided with Bennett until she passed it to her great niece, who held on to it for 50 years. It sold at auction in 2000.

The auctioneer calls it "one of the most remarkable Titanic items to have been offered for auction in recent years".

Mabel Bennett fur coat

Bennett returning to the UK with other Titanic stewardesses aboard SS Lapland

Bennett lived until the age of 95, dying in 1974.

Also on offer is a letter written during the crossing by fellow Titanic survivor Alfons Simonius-Blumer.

Writing on Titanic headed notepaper, the Swiss army colonel reveals life in first class.

"Last night I slept wonderfully from half past 10 to 7 o'clock this morning and I've ridden the (electric) horse and camel. They have left me well shaken up, and this afternoon at 3 or 4 o'clock I think I will take a Turkish bath.

Titanic letter

'I've ridden the electric horse and camel"

"It is really as good as the best hotel."

It comes with a £22,000 ($27,500) valuation.

The auction also features this rare, highly detailed photo of the ship the day before departure.

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