Additional Coverage:
- ‘Antiques Roadshow’ guest who ‘nearly didn’t bother to come’ stunned to hear the value of her jewelry (marketrealist.com)
A woman who “nearly didn’t bother” attending Antiques Roadshow was stunned to discover the value of her late husband’s family heirlooms. The items, connected to British royalty, included brooches, a medal, a pocket watch, and a reverse intaglio, all in their original boxes.
The guest explained that her husband’s great-grandmother was nanny to Queen Alexandra, wife of King Edward VII. A brooch and medal, dated 1902, the year of Edward VII’s coronation, were likely gifts commemorating the event. Adding to the historical significance were two telegrams from Sandringham House, one a condolence letter upon Queen Alexandra’s death and the other a Christmas invitation from the Queen herself.
The guest, clearly charmed by the items and their history, confessed, “I just love them. I feel as though I’d like to go back in time and be a part of it.” She added, “But I suppose in a way I am a part of it because they have ended up in my care.”
Her astonishment grew as each item was appraised: the coronation medallion at $817, the accompanying brooch at $1,702, the intricate reverse intaglio at $2,383, and both the pocket watch and a second, jeweled brooch at $2,724 each.
Overcome with surprise, the guest admitted with a smile, “I nearly didn’t bother to come today. Nearly stayed at home and decorated.” It seems a last-minute decision led to a very rewarding day.