Additional Coverage:
- ‘Antiques Roadshow’ guest says ‘I’m staggered’ after expert revealed the real value of her tea set (marketrealist.com)
Stunned “Antiques Roadshow” Guest Learns Her Tea Set Is Worth a Fortune
An “Antiques Roadshow” guest was pleasantly surprised to learn that her tea set, purchased by her parents for £50 (about $68 USD) in the 1800s, is now worth thousands. The guest, an elderly woman who has cherished the set for 65 years, was visibly staggered when the appraiser revealed its current value.
The expert identified the set as a rare and complete Minton majolica ware. Majolica, a brightly-glazed earthenware popular in the late 19th century, was produced by several manufacturers, but Minton is considered one of the best. The expert emphasized the rarity of a complete set, having only seen one other in decades.
The whimsical set features pieces modeled after fruits, vegetables, and nuts. The teapot is designed as a cluster of nuts, the sugar bowl a gourd, the milk jug an artichoke, and the saucers resemble lily pads.
Examining the potter’s marks, date codes, and mold numbers, the expert dated the pieces between 1872 and 1874. Despite their age, the pieces remain in remarkable condition.
The expert estimated the set’s current value between £2,500 and £3,500 (approximately $3,341 to $4,677 USD), citing the growing market for majolica ware. The guest, clearly overwhelmed, could only express her astonishment, saying, “I’m staggered.”