MANY people amass antiques, collectibles and jewellery but struggle to discover their true value when there’s a simple – and free – way to find out.
A no-obligation home visit courtesy of an antiques or jewellery expert could open the door to a windfall, and there’s no need to step outside your front door.
It makes discovering if you own something of value easy. You avoid the expense of transport costs, save time and large collections or heavy items, such as furniture, can be assessed with ease. It also takes away the worry of travelling with objects that may be valuable.
Hansons Auctioneers offer free home visits, and their large team of valuers can assess all types of antiques and collectables. The firm’s broad range of general and specialist sales cover silver, jewellery, Fine Art, paintings, ceramics, Chinese/Asian works of art, toys, stamps, books, period clothing, wine, whisky, music memorabilia, 20th century design, militaria, coins, historica and more.
Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: “We pride ourselves on our free home visit service. We want to make life as easy as possible for clients. People can explore the potential of their treasures and heirlooms from the comfort of their armchair and, if they wish, consign to auction.
“Our valuers have decades of experience in their chosen areas of expertise. We’re also proud to draw on the knowledge of consultant valuers such as Eric Knowles, Adam Schoon and Kate Bliss, famous faces from the world of TV.
“Another important reason to invite a valuer into your home is that, often, an object thought to be of no value is spotted. I came across a Chinese vase which a client had been told was worthless. The Qing dynasty Jiaqing era relic, circa 1796-1820, had sat on her glass cabinet for 25 years. She had no intention of having it revalued but it achieved £46,000 at Hansons.
“Another day, just as I was leaving a home visit, car engine revving, a client raced into his garage to find one last thing. It turned out to be a Chinese libation cup from the Kangxi period, circa 1662-1722. It hammered at £15,000.
“Often people are surprised by what may be valuable, but we are acutely aware of auction buying trends. For example, there’s growing demand for iconic 20th century design such as 1960s and 70s retro teak furniture, gaming consoles and Pokémon trading cards. Think Sega Mega Drive or Nintendo.
“Auctions are incredibly diverse. This year a scarce 19th century Korean Joseon dynasty helmet soared to a premium inclusive total of £26,896 from a £250-£350 guide. And two original scripts from the TV show Friends, found in a bin decades ago, made £17,000.
“Designer watches are always desirable and a gold, diamond-set Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date watch achieved £11,800. Gold, coins and jewellery excel too. For example, a rare 1838 Queen Victoria Coronation 22ct gold medal, designed by Italian coin engraver Benedetto Pistrucci, hammered at £7,350.”
To book a free, no-obligation home visit, or to learn more about Hansons’ house clearance services, probate and insurance valuations, or valuation days in the area, please email [email protected] or call 07470 459309.
