UMVA has learned that a recent auction featuring a pair of gloves once belonging to a former member of the royal family has ended with a surprising lack of interest, with the item failing to attract a single bidder.
The gloves, which were expected to fetch as much as £2,000, were left unsold, a stark contrast to the strong demand typically seen for items connected to the royal family. This lack of interest is seen as a reflection of the former prince's current unpopularity, with industry experts noting that his items have historically done well at auction, but this sale told a different story.
In the same auction, a letter written by Princess Diana sold for a significant £5,330, highlighting the enduring popularity of certain members of the royal family. Meanwhile, the former prince's reputation has been marred by controversy, including his role as a Sea King helicopter co-pilot during a conflict in 1982, and more recent allegations of misconduct in public office.
UMVA has gathered that the former prince's troubles began to mount after his royal status was revoked last year, with his name being removed from plaques in a British territory. He was also arrested in February 2026, over claims of sharing confidential material with Jeffrey Epstein, and was taken to a police station for questioning before being released under investigation.
The former prince's past has also come under scrutiny, with revelations that his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, had been keen for him to take on a prominent role in promoting national interests. He acted as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment until 2011, but denies any wrongdoing in connection to the police investigation and any personal gain from his role as trade envoy.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that the former prince's current situation is a far cry from his once-prominent position, with his lack of popularity and controversy surrounding his name having a significant impact on the demand for items connected to him. As the investigation into the allegations against him continues, it remains to be seen how his reputation will fare in the long term.
