Historic Royal Standard Flag from 1947 South Africa Tour Heads to Auction
A very special Royal Standard flag, which was flown on a car during a significant royal tour of South Africa in 1947, is now up for sale at auction. This unique piece of memorabilia holds a rich historical connection to the late Queen Mother and the young princesses Elizabeth and Margaret.
Flag's Journey and Royal Connections
The linen Royal Standard flag accompanied the royal party on their tour before being presented to their chauffeur, Joseph Nesbit. Nesbit served the royals in Rhodesia from 1921 to 1952, including Edward VIII when he was the Prince of Wales. According to Catherine Southon of Catherine Southon's Auctioneers and Valuers in Kent, Nesbit and Edward shared a friendly relationship, leading to the chauffeur receiving the flag as a token of appreciation.
In addition to the flag, a tie pin given to Nesbit by Edward during his 1925 South Africa tour is also being auctioned. Ms Southon highlighted that these are two pieces of memorabilia given by two different members of the royal family, making them highly desirable items with a compelling backstory.
Family Stories and Auction Details
Nesbit's wife, Harriet, worked as a cook in Government House and fondly recalled the young prince sitting in the kitchen playing the banjo. The chauffeur's collection is being sold by his family, adding a personal touch to the auction. Ms Southon noted that such flags rarely come up for sale, enhancing their appeal to collectors and history enthusiasts.
The auction, scheduled to run for two weeks starting April 5, features these royal items alongside other historical pieces. For instance, a 1902 Cadbury tin containing chocolate, commemorating the coronation of Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, is also included, with an estimated value of £100 to £200.
Estimated Values and Significance
The Royal Standard flag is estimated to fetch between £800 and £1,200, while the tie pin is valued at £600 to £800. These estimates reflect the items' rarity and the strong narrative behind them, as emphasized by Ms Southon. She stated, I think these things are desirable. There's a strong story behind it and the same family is lovely.
This auction offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of royal history, connecting buyers to a bygone era of monarchy and travel. The items not only represent royal gifts but also tell the story of the Nesbit family's service and their unique interactions with the British royal family.
