Full lock of Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson's Hair

Tantalising link to a national hero's death. The circular agate box decorated with a gold band measures 4.5cm (1.75 inches) in diameter.

A fragmentary enamel plaque attached to the lid of the box reads "N….05". The antique box is believed to date circa 1800 - 1810.

This hair closely conforms to the other known examples of Nelson's hair, and has been described by maritime history experts as closely resembling to a lock contained in a pendant which sold for £44,000 at auction in January, 2011.

That locket also contained hair thought to have belonged to Lady Emma Hamilton who is known to have received Nelson's hair among other effects, after his death.

Hamilton and Nelson's daughter Horatia later gifted several locks and strands such as this to close friends and family members, important dignitaries, and members of Nelson's HMS Victory crew.