Revered TV antiques expert Paul Martin returned to Melksham last week for another Valuation Day, which saw residents bring an array of varied items, including a late 18th-century Spanish crossbow and a Samurai sword.
The Valuation Day was held on Wednesday 27th November at ‘that meeting space’ in the Market Place. BBC’s Flog it! Presenter Paul Martin said it was ‘another successful’ event with lots of militaria being valued.
“We have also seen the usual Flog it! Items. We have had jewellery, which always sells really well,” explained Paul. “Gold is at an all-time high, so that is good and sells well when it’s high.
“We have also had some cutting-edge weapons and a lovely Samurai sword, which has great provenance,” says Paul.
“The creme de la creme for me is some wonderful pieces of porcelain, which are Derby. There is one, which is a lovely candle sconce to hold a candle. It is topical at this time of year because it’s Christmas time and it has a small handle on the back. The condition is immaculate considering this was made in 1780; everything is intact. That has a value of around about £400 to £500.
“There is another model with figures around the outside an is also Derby. It is beautiful and was made in 1790 and is in fantastic condition. It’s all hand-decorated.”
The administrator of ‘that meeting space,’ John Firth, said, “It has been very busy; we have had around 30 people. People have bought in some really interesting things. Hosting the valuation days here is a great way to use the space. It just goes to show that people have lots of stuff in their houses and they need to know what it is all worth.”
The next event is due to take place at ‘that meeting space’ on Wednesday 26th February, from 10.30am to 3pm
Pictured: Paul Martin with the two models from 1780 to 1790
