The naval jacket worn by James Bond author, Ian Fleming, throughout World War II, when the character of '007' was first taking shape in his mind, is to be auctioned at Bonhams' Books, Maps, Manuscripts & Historical Photographs sale in London on November 22.

For a serving officer in Naval Intelligence such as Fleming, his naval jacket was an essential and much valued piece of kit and the author to be was wearing it while acting as observer at the ill fated Dieppe Raid in 1942. 

Years later, Fleming spoke of how he first began to dream up the character of Bond during the war and of how his own experiences at that time influenced the development of his most famous creation.       

The jacket, which is estimated at £5,000-7,000, has an impeccable provenance. 

James Bond author Ian Fleming's jacket boats 'impeccable provenance'

It was given by Fleming to his close friend, Ivar Bryce, whom he had known from his schooldays at Eton and whose middle name - Felix - he gave to Bond's CIA agent friend, Felix Leiter.

The novel 'Diamonds Are Forever'is dedicated to him.  Fleming had the endearing habit of including in-jokes in his books and the diamond shown on the original cover of, 'Diamonds Are Forever' belonged to Jo Bryce, Ivar's third wife.  

The writer often stayed at the Bryce's farm in Vermont and many local place names feature in the book.

Bryce's niece, Janet, married David Mountbatten, the third Marquess of Milford Haven, and the jacket is being sold by his great nephew, Lord Ivar Mountbatten, younger brother of the present Marquess.  

Other Fleming items in the sale include a first edition of the first Bond novel, 'Casino Royale' estimated at £6,000-8,000.

James Bond ‘007’ collectibles aren’t restricted to the wealthy – buyers on a budget can own this genuine signed photograph for sale, autographed by Sir Roger Moore, for just £100

This isn't the first time that a Bond-affiliated outfit has appeared for sale on the collectors' markets.

Items that we've handled at Paul Fraser Collectibles include an original James Bond suit, inside stamped "Pierce Brosnan" and worn by the famous actor, as seen in the classic 1995 adventure Goldeneye.

And you don't need to have thousands of pounds to spend to own prized items of Bond memorabilia. Take this signed photograph, autographed by Bond star Roger Moore, which is for sale priced at just £100 - an ideal Christmas present for a 007-loving relative.

These collectibles are just some of many which confirm both Fleming and Bond's ongoing appeal to collectors, each of which could grow in value in future years.

Watch this space for more news on Bonhams' Ian Fleming sale.