Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s ‘worn and dirty’ Falklands gloves go under the hammer

Dorothy Reddin
Sat, 25 Apr 2026 09:32:49 +0000

A pair of leather flying gloves worn by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor during the 1982 Falklands conflict has been placed on the auction block, with auctioneers expecting bids of between £1,000 and £2,000.

The gloves are being offered for sale by Reeman Dansie, based in Colchester, Essex.

Mr Mountbatten-Windsor originally gave the signed gloves to a charity sale in 1982, with proceeds going to the Falklands Appeal and South Atlantic Fund.

At that time, the prince had reached the peak of his public standing following his service as a helicopter pilot in the South Atlantic campaign.

The lot also includes a letter from Mr Mountbatten-Windsor's equerry apologising for his absence from the original charity event, explaining he would be accompanying Queen Elizabeth II.

During the conflict, Mr Mountbatten-Windsor served aboard the aircraft carrier HMS Invincible as part of 820 Naval Air Squadron, having trained to operate Sea King helicopters.

Following Argentina's invasion of the Falkland Islands in April 1982, the vessel was dispatched to the South Atlantic.

Throughout the war, the prince undertook anti-submarine patrols, acted as a missile decoy, and participated in the evacuation of wounded personnel.

His commanding officer, Commander Nigel Ward, spoke highly of his abilities, describing him as "an excellent pilot and very promising officer."

The gloves bear the marks of active service, showing visible wear and dirt from operational flying duties.

Auctioneer James Grinter observed that the items recall an era before the prince's reputation collapsed.

"The gloves are worn and dirty from flying operations. Andrew was highly regarded at the time. It would have been inconceivable then that he would be disgraced for his subsequent behaviour," he remarked.

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The sale is scheduled for June 9.

Mr Mountbatten-Windsor's standing has deteriorated dramatically since his wartime service, with King Charles removing his royal status last year.

Following this decision, commemorative plaques bearing his name were taken down in the Falkland Islands.