The flag was raised above HMS Royal Sovereign, the flagship of Newcastle-born Vice-Admiral Cuthbert Collingwood, during the decisive naval battle on October 21, 1805. "Collingwood is a popular figure in the North East but perhaps isn't given the national hero status that he and his crew deserve. Keith Merrin, Director of North East Museums, looks at a Union flag that was flown from the HMS Royal Sovereign at the Battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805. Royal Sovereign, at Trafalgar is coming to Newcastle. Battle scar on Union flag, Royal Sovereign (Image: Supplied)The purchase price was £450,000, with an estimated £250,000 needed for transportation, conservation, and development of the exhibition.