Top 10 Antiques Roadshow Finds of the 2020's

#10: Fabergé Jewellery

Ok, despite what we’ve just said, we are kicking things off with a particularly valuable item. Two, in fact: a pendant and a brooch, and both very unique. Any items from the prestigious Jewellery firm, founded St. Petersberg by Gustav Fabergé in 1842, is bound to excite the “Roadshow,” mainly because they were made for the Russian Royal Family. Although these particular items weren’t, there is still something special about the glistening precious stones that travelled to England, from Siberia. As Geoffrey Munn explains, this set was a personalised gift, potentially prototypes, thus carrying a valuation of up to £50,000 altogether. As for selling them, the best advice comes from the translated inscription: “Maybe it’s better not to wait…”

#9: David Hockney Painting

Art expert Rupert Maas said it best with this discovery; a "sparkling revelation." Although most artists become more famous after they pass, David Hockney – now an octogenarian – has certainly bucked the trend. His artwork is extremely sought after, and valuable. Though he may not have suspected how much his worth would grow, when the then-art student sold this piece to a Trimley St Mary signalman, in 1957. The guest’s grandfather had provided shelter, a cuppa, and then invited Hockney and fellow artist friend John Loker home for Sunday lunch, before buying one of their works. It was a kindness certainly repaid in aplomb, as the green and brown landscape – made with the only two colours Hockney probably had – was valued at £20-30,000.

#8: Battle of Britain Medals

World War Two exemplified how “Never was so much owed by so many to so few." This late-2024 episode of “Roadshow” helps tell of those now-legendary “few.” Such as Douglas Bader, the Commander of the 242 Squadron of the Spitfire pilots that successfully held back the Nazi invasion during “The Battle of Britain”… all despite having lost both of his legs a decade prior. The daughter of Bader’s Flight Lieutenant – George Shedden – brought the medals earned by her father’s bravery. But, arguably more fascinating, is the logbook – signed by Bader – marvellously recounting those incredible events of that September day in 1940. However, it’s "staying in the family” as Shedden’s daughter proves that you can’t buy history – even if it is valued at £60,000.

#7: Gifts From the Tsar

Already, we have seen stories of the skies and precious Russian items – but this entry brings us a piece of Russia’s history from the seas. As the world entered the 19th Century, Naval Officer Alexander Fraser was commanding the Neva and Nadejda, two Imperial Royal family ships – which were constructed in Britain, and given to Russia. How do we know this? Because it’s inscribed on a little gold snuff box, gifted to him from Tsar Alexander I in 1803. The Edinburgh man passed it down through the family until it reached his Great-Great-Great-Great-Niece, who brought it to the attention of Marc Allum. Ultimately valued at £20-30,000, it was, to quote the guest, "quite a lot for a little box."

#6: Definitely Not a Doorstop

If this next item is anything to go by, we should really visit more car boot sales… The guest had done just that, and got himself an odd-looking little sculpture… without really knowing what it was. After forking over 50 quid for it, the man got it home and started putting it to truly worthwhile use… as a doorstop. Indeed, when the “Roadshow” came to town, curiosity got the better of him, figuring that the experts might be able to give a bit more information about it. The experts knew exactly what it was; this door-stop was actually a piece from renowned Nigerian artist Ben Enwonwu, and valued it at £10-15,000. The owner believed it was about a hundred.

#5: Inside No. 251

At first, this may appear to be an ordinary house door number plate. However, the reveal of just whose childhood home it was affixed to, elicited gasps of astonishment from the “Roadshow” spectators. Indeed, behind number 251 of Menlove Avenue, lived none other than John Lennon. Menlove Ave was the Lennon family home until 1965, and served the name for John’s posthumous 1986 compilation album. The next residents didn’t care much for The Beatles, and probably less so in having to deal with trespassers over their 36 year tenancy. Luckily, their nephew did, and gave him this little piece of history. Just as well, since it could potentially be worth £16,000, though the guest might hold on to it, for now…

#4: A Letter That Survived The Titanic

Over the “Antiques Roadshow’s” nearly half-century run, there have been a few treasures brought from the well documented, and ill-fated, RMS Titanic. They all tell a story, but few are as personal as this letter, from a father to his 18-year-old plate-washer son. Post-collision, he was tasked with helping evacuation efforts. But unable to escape himself, the lad fell into the icy waters of the Atlantic. Most “Titanic” stories end there; however, the lad got to a lifeboat, was rescued, had kids, and went on to live a full life. Not only did he survive, but so did the letter tucked in his jacket pocket. Realistically, it would fetch £10,000 at auction, but his children are adamant about its next intended home; a museum.

#3: That Guitar

We’ve talked about this particular guitar before, but we’d be remiss not to mention it as being a recent find of major significance. The fretless guitar constructed by Bartells of California is only one of two ever made. Whilst one made its way into the hands of Jimi Hendrix, this one made its way into our ears via “Happiness is a Warm Gun,” which – fans of entry 5’s original owner know– is by The Beatles. The unique-sounding instrument of choice was originally John Lennon’s, then, George Harrison owned it. But, through not knowing what to do with it, Harrison turned it over to a studio guitarist – who brought it to the “Roadshow.” A valuation of £400,000 just shows how significant it really is!

#2: Suffragette Medal

The “Women’s Social and Political Union,”, founded in 1903, knew that their actions had to be profound to secure equal voting rights for women. The WSPU was, of course, the Suffragettes – earning a place in history that cannot be understated. The militant movement performed outlandish stunts that often led to incarceration… which only served as new platforms for political protest. A 2024 episode showcases a testament to one suffragette’s efforts. Gertrude Metcalfe Shaw was awarded a Holloway Brooch by the WSPU for her protestations during her 1913 imprisonment, including her 5-day hunger strike; which was likely met with, and resisted, violent response. The medal collection is valued at £25-30,000, but her Great-Granddaughter’s aversion to relinquish shows pride eclipses any monetary worth.

#1: An Imperial Chinese Robe

The history of the relationship between England and China is somewhat convoluted. The two countries used to fight a lot, but then they’d also used to trade a lot too. One of the best reflections of the latter times was brought to the “Roadshow” in 2021; a, quote, "spectacular" robe. The 1750 origin alone makes it very rare, since the only other Imperial attire like it is likely on display in Beijing. Its design is a real show of true craftsmanship, colourful patterns which are quintessentially Chinese, and it’s incredibly well kept for being nearly three hundred years old… despite previously being used for playing dress up. But, even so, at auction, it would make a staggering £200,000... at least!

We’ve no doubt that ten items from five years of the “Antiques Roadshow” can’t really be enough. Tell us what you thought to be the best, in the comments.