National Museum of the Royal Navy Signs New Licensee DealsNational Museum of the Royal Navy Signs New Licensee Deals

National Museum of the Royal Navy has announced that it has signed licenses with U.S. based- Ampersand Book Studio and U.K. jewelry company, Hepburn & Hughes. Both licenses will use historic and highly sought-after wood originating from HMS Victory.

HMS Victory, the world's oldest naval ship still in commission best known for her role as Vice Admiral Lord Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805, is undergoing a major conservation project costing £35 million.

Ampersand Book Studio will create a fine press edition of Patrick O’Brian’s novel, “Master and Commander.” and will create covers made from authenticated wood taken from HMS Victory.

“We have spent months working with the literary estate of Patrick O’Brian and felt that our edition would only be complete with authentic wood from HMS Victory,” says Tristan Reader, founder, Ampersand Book Studio. “We are delighted now to have secured this precious material for our iconic edition.”

Hepburn & Hughes have created a range of sterling silver pendants, cuff links and rings by upcycling the precious material from HMS Victory. Each item comes complete with a certificate of authenticity bearing the HMS Victory trademark.

“Our HMS Victory range is one of our best sellers and we are delighted to become official licensees,” says Zoe Wongsam, director, Hepburn & Hughes. “This has given us the opportunity to develop our historical memorabilia range.”

“Wood from HMS Victory is a precious and inspiring material and we are delighted to be working with two such creative companies producing fine quality products,” says Emma Allen, head, commercial services, National Museum of the Royal Navy.