Lot 887

CA. 1870'S BRITISH ADMIRAL'S BICORNE HAT, FROCK COAT, AND BELT

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CA. 1870'S BRITISH ADMIRAL'S BICORNE HAT, FROCK COAT, AND BELT

Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000

Starting Bid: $1,000

(0 Bids)

by Alexander Historical Auctions LLC
July 31, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Live Auction
106 East Main Street, Suite 103
Elkton, MD, US 21921

CA. 1870'S BRITISH ADMIRAL'S BICORNE HAT, FROCK COAT, AND BELT
19th Century Royal Navy Admiral's Full Dress Uniform Ensemble. A magnificent and near-complete Royal Navy flag officer's full dress uniform, circa 1870–1900 pattern. This impressive ensemble would have been worn by a Rear Admiral or higher rank for formal ceremonies, courts-martial, and official occasions. Included in this impressive lot is a double-breasted frock coat of fine dark navy blue wool, featuring two rows of large gilt brass buttons with raised fouled anchor and crown motif with matching smaller cuff buttons. Elaborate gold bullion lace and embroidery to collar, cuffs, and skirt flaps. The pockets of the garment as well as the rear pleated vent flap are similarly adorned with similar gilt buttons and lace. Complete with ornate gold bullion epaulettes featuring heavy fringe and large silver wire fouled anchor devices. The proper ceremonial waist belt with gold-trimmed webbing and impressive gilt buckle is present, the gilt buckle also displaying a fouled anchor surmounted by a crown. The belt is fitted with a lengthy sword hanger, trimmed in silver to match the belt and bearing a brass snap and length adjustment buckle. Also present is the officer's bicorne (cocked) hat in black felt with lavish gold bullion braiding, tassels, and anchor button to the front. Some of the bullion tassels on the shoulder boards have been stretched but restoration or replacement should not be difficult. The hat retains excellent form and detailing, some small areas of wear along the bottom edge. Within, the hat is lined in purple pleated fabric (two small tears) and bearing the leather maker's label of 'Gieve & Sons' Portsmouth & Devonport'. Sold with the original black painted steel box for used for transport and stoarage of the hat and epaulets, calfskin-lined interior fitted with compartments and devices for the contents. A striking and visually commanding set evoking the golden age of British naval power, perfect for museum display or a private collection.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000