Eppli auctions handwritten letter from Queen Elizabeth II.

Within the framework of an auction on November 26, 2022 in Leinfelden-Echterdingen, the Stuttgart auction house is offering a very special rarity in the Historika section, in addition to other outstanding objects on the subject of "British royalty": a handwritten two-page letter from the recently deceased Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022) from 1966 to a passionate equestrian.

From the majestic forge

Since there are usually no autographs from the royal family, this letter, dated December 31, 1966, in the format of approx. 19 x 12 cm with envelope, is a unique specimen. Written entirely in the queen's own hand and signed "Elizabeth R," it was addressed to a luxury hotel in London where the recipient was staying at the time: "Mrs. Arpad Plesch, Claridge's, Brook Street, W1. This was Mrs. Etti Plesch, née Maria Gräfin von Wurmbrand-Stuppach (1914-2003), who married the wealthy Hungarian lawyer Dr. Arpad Plesch in 1954 in her sixth marriage. Her whole passion, like that of Queen Elizabeth II, was equestrian sports. Thus, her animals won numerous races, including even twice the Epsom Derby, which is considered the most prestigious race in England. Even the title of her autobiography, "Horses and Husbands," is dedicated to her love of horses, which obviously connected her closely with the British queen. She actually resided in Monaco, but for important horse races she always stayed in Germany, where her roots were.

Personal words of appreciation

"Madame Plesch", as the recipient of the letter was addressed in the 1990s, according to information from the consignor's side passed away in 2003. After her death, only a few persons close to her and familiar with her received received personal mementos from her residence in Germany, including this handwritten letter with the following wording "Dear Mrs. Plesch, I was so delighted with the lovely picture of some (?) of the Sandringham herds (?) which I received from you and Mr. Plesch for Christmas. It was extremely kind of you to think of giving me the studies of breeds (/ herds?) of some of my old favourites who had all helped to make the Sandringham stud successful on the race course. I wish they'd do as well in the paddocks, now, but I suppose in horse breeding, one has to be patient and wait for luck. to be patient and wait for luck to return once again! Thank you both very much indeed for this gift. Yours sincerely Elizabeth R".

Carefully preserved rarity

The rare item was presented framed behind glass for a long time, which is why the ink on the front is faded due to sun exposure has faded. The reverse of the original, which was placed in the notice as a copy next to the front side remained protected and is therefore clearly legible. On it are presented the royal coat of arms and the writing SANDRINGHAM NORFOLK, which is embossed in relief and colored in the typical red. On stationery of the country estate Sandringham, it commemorates a place of significance for the royal family. Traditionally, the Royal Family inhabited the estate from Christmas until the end of January. King George VI, the father of Queen Elizabeth II, died at Sandringham House. died at Sandringham House.

Other selected gems

Besides the letter, which will be offered at the Historika auction with lot number 80 and the starting price of EUR 2.600,- incl. buyer's premium. premium, other selected objects on the theme of "British Royal Family" will be offered for auction. offered for auction. Among them, for example, a rare letter from Buckingham Palace from the office of Lady Di, a fine silk embroidery work with the coat of arms of the Kingdom of England as well as an exclusive gold coin set with the likeness of Elizabeth II.

The letter and the other objects can be viewed from Nov. 22, 2022, or by appointment at the Eppli Auction Hall in Leinfelden-Echterdingen to be viewed. Interested parties can visit the auction hall on November 26, 2022 in Leinfelden- Echterdingen, by telephone or online via the live auction.

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