IAN Fleming was known for cracking codes through his role as a spy before penning the famous James Bond series.

And it appears his passion for puzzles and brain teasers extended to his sartorial choices too.

Cufflinks which are believed to have belonged to the late author are set to go under the hammer at Mallams Auctioneers in Oxford for a guide price of £800 to £1,200.

The pearl cufflinks with a radial decoration contain the inscriptions 'WUS', 'SIL', 'UDH' and 'NUF' at the back.

The groups of letters inscribed are believed to represent a code, which is apparently yet to be solved.

Fleming, the British writer, journalist, and naval intelligence officer is most famous for writing the James Bond series of fictional spy novels which led to several adaptations for film, radio, and television.

Fleming's service in the Naval Intelligence Division during the Second World War and his experiences as a journalist inspired much of his writing for the character of James Bond.

It is believed that these cufflinks were worn by Fleming to the Dr. No post film screening party in 1962.

The auction is taking place in Oxford on November 17 at 11am.