An Antiques Roadshow guest was left speechless when he discovered the true value of his gold belt buckle.
The gold belt buckle, purchased for $5,700, was appraised at $20,000 to $40,000 due to its intricate craftsmanship and substantial gold content.
During a special episode of PBS's Antiques Roadshow filmed in Alaska, an attendee presented a unique belt buckle for evaluation. The large, Alaskan-themed piece was adorned with what appeared to be a mammoth tusk and pure gold nuggets. Daily Mail reported that it was bought at an auction a few years ago for approximately $5,700.
Expert appraiser Kevin Zavian evaluated the buckle. He noted the piece's impressive craftsmanship and the meticulous work involved in creating it. "These nuggets are soldered to a base of gold, so even though it looks like they’re all just laid in there, it’s a lot of work and labor," he explained.
According to Zavian, the belt buckle contained five troy ounces of gold, contributing significantly to its high value.
He marveled at the attention to detail in the buckle’s design, pointing out the careful soldering of the nuggets and the presence of a tusk embellishment, which he speculated could be from a mammoth. "You got this nice embellishment of a twist wire. I love this part, that this is a mastodon tusk," Zavian added.
The guest was ecstatic upon learning the true value of his item. Zavian revealed that the belt buckle could fetch between $20,000 and $40,000 in the right auction. He emphasized its strong Alaskan identity, saying, "This is so Alaskan that, in the right auction, I think something like this could be $20,000 to $40,000."
Antiques Roadshow, which began as a British television series in 1977 and premiered in 1979, continues to captivate audiences with surprising appraisals. In another segment of the latest episode, another guest’s collection of medieval keys was appraised by expert Marc Allum.
Allum assessed the collection, which included items dating back to the 15th century. The keys had been accumulated through car boot sales and selective purchases from private sellers and auctions over the years. The appraisal estimated the collection’s value at over $25,000.
The medieval key collection added an intriguing historical element to the episode, showcasing the diverse range of antiques evaluated on the show. Guests often bring items with fascinating backstories and historical significance, making each episode unique and educational.
Antiques Roadshow remains popular due to its blend of history, expert knowledge, and human interest. The series provides a platform for individuals to uncover the hidden value of their possessions and learn about their historical significance. The program continues to educate and entertain audiences, celebrating the craftsmanship and history of antiques while revealing their often surprising value.
As the longest-running series about antique appraisals, Antiques Roadshow has a rich history of uncovering hidden treasures. The show’s ability to surprise and delight guests and viewers alike ensures its place as a beloved staple of television.
The astonishing appraisal of the Alaskan-themed belt buckle and the medieval key collection highlights the enduring fascination with antiques and the stories they tell. Antiques Roadshow’s special visit to Alaska provided yet another memorable episode, showcasing the show's timeless appeal.
