Collectors Love Their Royal Memorabilia

When someone famous—or royal—passes away, collectibles, autographs and items related to their lives rise in value. The passing last week of Prince Philip at age 99 caused us to look at royal collectibles related to Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Queen Elizabeth II. Generally speaking, souvenirs from royal marriages, births and deaths are mass produced. Mass produced collectibles tend to appreciate less and are treated as souvenirs.  Collectors look for something others can’t easily acquire. Personal items used by or belonging to members of the Royal Family or other royals, such as locks of hair from royal Victorian mourning jewelry or an item owned or signed by a royal, is highly collectible and sells for higher prices. Here is a look at some royal collectibles that fall in both categories.

Royal Doulton figurine, H.M. Queen Elizabeth II and H.R.H. Prince Phillip on their wedding day, made for 50th Golden Anniversary, marked, 1997, 9 1/4 in., $163. Photo: Lion and Unicorn

Wedgwood commemorative mug, H.M. Queen Elizabeth II and H.R.H. Prince Philip 25th Anniversary, tankard style, designed by Richard Guyatt, Etruria & Barlaston, 6 by 4 in., $25. Photo: Converse Auctions

Pair of Wedgwood black basalt busts, made to commemorate the Silver Wedding Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II and Duke of Edinburgh, box, 9 in., $270. Photo: William Smith Auctions

Cayman Islands $25 silver coin, issued to commemorate the 25th Wedding Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, proof edition in original box, 1972, $47. Photo: Andrew’s Coin and Jewelry

Royal Christmas card, with color print of “The Holy Family” and greeting, signed “Elizabeth R” and “Philip,” 1958, open size 18 by 7 3/4 in., $840. Photo: RR Auction