Hi Ian,
If you wish to paint it I would recommend you visit the following site
http://www.hms-victory.com//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=78&Itemid=111
It is the official site for HMS Victory and has information for those wishing to build the Victory including colour schemes.
For the copper bottom you could try self adhesive copper tape cut to correct size and just stuck using its own glue. The effect is quite good if well done.
Another good site for HMS Victory is
http://www.pete-coleman.com/
Although based on the Airfix/Heller 1:100 scale plastic model they have tons of information regarding the modifications they have applied to the kit and also the paint scheme as at the time of Trafalgar.
They also run a forum that is free to join where many things relating to Victory are discussed.
Also the book by C.N.Longridge have info on the colour scheme along with many modelling tips.
Another useful book is the conway Anatomy of the ship book on Victory by Mackay.
Both these books have lots of useful information along with acurate plans to help get the details correct.
Good luck with the build and post some pictures for us to see.
John S