NAVAL OFFICERS WOODEN SEA CHEST by E.A. SEAGROVE, 1867-1880

I recently purchased a trunk/chest from an estate auction in a storage unit where no information on it's background was known. I've began researching online and sent a few inquiries to the UK where I've found the trunk maker was located, due to it having a lock reading E.A. SEAGROVE. Although my info on it is limited and replies also limited, I have only been told from a UK Militaria Specialist that it is a 'sea chest' most likely used by Naval Officer for personal travel/belongings. It is so much larger than most trunks I find online which is why I am here for any insight/theories. It is very warped/weathered and I am considering repurposing. It is flat top wood, appears slat pine, 42" Long/24" Deep/25.5" Tall. It has metal strapping that is broken and iron handles. No key. I found that E.A. Seagroves was a transitionary business name in 1866, as the name went through changes due to family initials, E&W Seagrove, SeaGroves & Son, etc.. it later was aquired by Gieves, Matthews and Seagroves. They were Naval Outfitters located at 22/23 in the Hard/Portsea UK. Any advice would be so great. I'd love to hear your thoughts on background and advice to repurpose or auction.