HMS Victory Union Jack flag fragments from the Battle of Trafalgar

A stunning relic from one of the most famous battles in naval history. Original fragments of the Union Jack flag flown on the HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Read our full feature article about this history of this piece here.

These two fragments were part of the Union Jack ensign that flew from HMS Victory during the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

They are comprised of red and blue hand-woven woollen bunting, matching the traditional material and colour of British naval flags from the period.

The two fragments together measure approximately 2 inches by 2.5 inches.

Following the battle, and Admiral Horatio Nelson's death, the ensign flags from the HMS Victory were returned to England along with his body.

They were used during his state funeral, carried by a group of 48 crew members as part of the grand procession that followed Nelson's casket to St Paul's Cathedral.

Nelson's crew were supposed to place the folded flags on the casket as it was lowered - but instead they were overcome with emotion.