URGENT UPDATE: Antiques expert and television auctioneer Charles Hanson will be in Torridge this month, inviting locals to uncover hidden treasures. Walk-in valuation sessions will take place at the Plough Arts Centre in Great Torrington on January 21, 2024, from 11 AM to 1 PM, followed by a session at the Hatherleigh Community Centre from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM. No appointment is necessary!
Residents are encouraged to bring their antiques, jewelry, and collectibles for evaluation. This is a rare opportunity to find out if those items tucked away in attics could be worth far more than expected.
Charles Hanson is known for his roles on popular shows like Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, and he’s eager to explore the unique treasures of Devon. He expressed his excitement, stating, “I love Devon and can’t wait to discover all the treasures it has to offer.”
Hanson is particularly interested in highly collectible silverware with the Exeter assay mark, a three-turreted castle, noting its rarity since Exeter’s office closed in 1883. He also highlighted the soaring gold prices, making even costume jewelry potentially valuable. “When people bring in what they think are worthless bits of costume jewelry, their jaws drop when I tell them that it could be worth thousands,” he added.
This is not just about antiques; it’s about unearthing hidden gems that could change lives. Last year, at a similar event in Birmingham, a blue and white Chinese pot, affectionately known as ‘Aunt Beryl’s vase,’ sold for a staggering £800,000.
Hanson is also keen to find pieces linked to Devon’s maritime history or unique West Country furniture from the 16th to 18th centuries. “Every house has one great valuable squirreled away, and nothing gives me more pleasure than unearthing them,” he stated.
Residents of Torridge, don’t miss this chance to turn your hidden treasures into cash! Bring your items to one of the sessions, and who knows—you could discover you are sitting on a goldmine.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting event!
