Queen Victoria’s royal post box, believed to have been used at the Isle of Wight's Osborne, has made a huge amount at auction - more than doubling its top estimate.

The 140-year-old table-top letter box, originally from the East Cowes estate, was sold by Hansons Auctioneers yesterday (Saturday) for a whopping £14,500 (before fees).

The wooden post box features the royal cypher ‘VR’, which stood for Victoria Regina.

The late 19th century ornate item was found in a cottage in Surrey and it is thought it was sold in 1945, in an auction at Carisbrooke Castle.

• Read more: Cosy but perfectly formed flat in historic home next to Queen Victoria's Osborne PROPERTY PHOTOS

The 37cm high object was expected to make up to £6,000 at the sale - but it more than doubled that estimate.

The post box was believed to have been a Christmas present to a former Islander.

Speaking before the sale, its former owner said: "My grandfather collected amazing objects and was fascinated by antiques and collectables.

"It’s hard to part with family heirlooms, but this royal item deserves to be seen and enjoyed."

It even had a vintage Christmas card inside.

• Read more: Will auction give stamp of approval for Queen Victoria's Osborne post box?

What are Queen Victoria's links to the Isle of Wight?

• Queen Victoria was born in 1819 and died at Osborne, on the Isle of Wight, on 22 January 1901.

• Her Osborne estate is now operated by English Heritage.

• The sale was held almost exactly 121 years after her death.