Margaret Thatcher Christie's Auction

Last week, auction house Christie's played host to perhaps the hotly anticipated sale of the year. Items from the collection of Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister of the UK went under the hammer, with the sale netting £4.5 million- nine times its original estimate.

One of my guilty pleasures is looking at auction catalogues, and perhaps from time to time, placing a bid or two. There were some great and truly unique items up for auction, and for many individuals, this would be the only opportunity to own a piece of political history.

Here are some of the highlights from the collection:

Prime Minister's Despatch Box: £242,500

Signed note: £37,500

Chanel Handbag and Scarf: £22,500

Chaumet Set: £12,500

Three Strand Pearl Necklace: £32,500

House of Lords Robes: £81,700

View the lots from the sale here.