Don't miss the beautiful golden 'fede' or betrothal ring in the Nelson, Navy, Nation gallery at the National Maritime Museum, a unique object symbolising the enduring love story between Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton.

This ring, belonging to Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson, is designed to look like two clasped hands. It was worn by Nelson at the time of his death.

It is one of a pair of rings exchange by Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton, probably when they took communion together before his departure for the Battle of Trafalgar. 

A tragic end

On the day before Nelson left to return to active duty in 1805, they went to a parish church where, in a conscious imitation of a marriage service, they received private communion and exchanged rings.

As HMS Victory sailed into action at Trafalgar, Nelson's last private act was to amend his will, in which he implored his king and country to provide for Emma and Horatia.

Nelson was shot through the left shoulder by a French sniper. He only lived for long enough to find out that the English navy had been successful in defeating the French and Spanish forces.

Once Nelson was gone Emma was abandoned by many of his family and friends. She also found that no one was prepared to honour his last wishes and provide for her and their child.