New artifacts of Baltimore socialite Wallis Simpson's love affair with King Edward VIII uncovered

Newly discovered artifacts of a famous Baltimorean's love affair with British royalty are now up for auction.

London fashion and antiques seller Kerry Taylor Auctions is auctioning off mementos, including rare photos and accessories, from the beginnings of the controversial love affair between Baltimore socialite Wallis Simpson, who later became the Duchess of Windsor, and King Edward VIII.

The items were locked away in a safe that was uncovered by the granddaughter of Herman and Katherine Rogers, who were both friends of Edward VIII, according to auction house owner Kerry Taylor.

Inside the safe was a photo album with around 200 pictures from the two couples' voyage on the Nahlin yacht around the Adriatic Sea in 1936. The photos are valued at an estimated $2,206 to $3,676 (or 1500 to 2500 pounds).

The pictures show the king shirtless and sunbathing, and Simpson, who was still married to Ernest Simpson at the time, in a bathing suit. The vacation is said to have made the couple's love affair public, ultimately leading to King Edward's decision to abdicate the throne in December 1936 amid pressure and disapproval of British aristocracy. He then was named Duke of Windsor, and he and Simpson married in 1937.

A gold Cartier cigarette case, Edward's gift to Herman Rogers for escorting Simpson down the aisle during the couple's wedding and for his support during his abdication, is also up for sale for an estimated $29,407 to $44,110 (20,000 to 30,000 pounds). The matching Cartier compact, which was given to Katherine Rogers, is estimated to cost $14,703 to $29,407 (10,000 to 20,000 pounds). Stationary, a pencil portrait, Edward VIII's suit, and a brown alligator bag that belonged to Simpson are also up for sale.

The "Passion for Fashion" auction will be held on June 14, with a viewing of the items held on June 12 and 13.