Antiques Roadshow guest is stunned after discovering the HUGE value of a 17th Century box and says he ‘needs a bodyguard’

Antiques Roadshow guest is stunned after discovering the HUGE value of a 17th Century box and says he 'needs a bodyguard'

As a lifestyle expert with a deep appreciation for antiques and history, I cannot help but be utterly fascinated by this remarkable story of an ordinary pensioner who stumbled upon a hidden treasure in his office decades ago. The discovery of a 17th Century silver gambling box with a portrait of Charles I is not only a testament to the owner’s keen eye for valuable antiques but also a reminder of the unexpected joys that life can bring us.


A guest on Antiques Roadshow was shocked to learn the significant worth of his antique silver gambling box, jokingly suggesting he might require protection to preserve it.

During the BBC program, expert Alastair Dickenson was taken aback in amazement when he examined a 17th Century painting depicting Charles I.

Alastair remarked: “I prefer the 17th century as my favorite era for English silver, and it’s delightful that you’ve brought this small box adorned with an image of Charles I.”

Interrupting, the pensioner exclaimed: ‘Is that what that is?’

In response to the confirmed historical facts, Alastair asked: “What’s its background before we delve into it?”

Antiques Roadshow guest is stunned after discovering the HUGE value of a 17th Century box and says he 'needs a bodyguard'
Antiques Roadshow guest is stunned after discovering the HUGE value of a 17th Century box and says he 'needs a bodyguard'

The owner shared: “I hardly knew Alastair at all, just that he approached me in the office when I was running my business, mentioning he was in need of some extra funds.”

In the field of insurance, focusing on antiques, I expressed my ignorance yet showed interest by asking, “How much are you asking for this?”

Back in 1988, we were discussing a price for an item, and he threw out a number that seemed quite steep to me. So, I shared my perspective, letting him know that I wouldn’t spend more than two grand on it. To my surprise, he agreed. And that’s how I acquired this valuable possession over three decades ago.

Alastair, an expert, looked closely at the distinctive object and commented: “This piece bears the image of Charles I at the top, while his wife Henrietta Maria is depicted below.”

“I’m really drawn to the intricate, whimsical demons adorning the sides of this box.”

The purchaser shared that when he acquired the antique, he was informed by the former owner that it contained “gambling disks” instead.

The item he purchased is exquisitely adorned with piercings and engravings. However, we should clarify what it truly represents. I was informed when I bought it that these were old gaming discs, manufactured by a group of men from long ago who spent their days feasting, drinking, and womanizing.

Alastair chuckled and remarked, “So that’s it then! No further discussion required. You’ve correctly identified it as a counter box. Let’s go ahead and remove the lid to reveal its contents – an intriguing collection of counters, each one meticulously engraved with various monarchs of England.”

Antiques Roadshow guest is stunned after discovering the HUGE value of a 17th Century box and says he 'needs a bodyguard'

A maker by the name of Simon Van de Pass is connected to this box bearing a likeness of King Charles I. Sadly, Simon passed away in the year 1647. Consequently, we can infer that the creation of this box predates Simon’s death, making an approximate estimate around the year 1640.

The pensioner was taken aback and exclaimed “my goodness” before verifying that the box contained exactly 32 counters.

As a lifestyle expert, I would say: “You’re getting close to reaching the maximum number of counters that can fit in one of these boxes.”

Through the passage of time, some of these unique items have been put up for sale at auction. Not all of them possess the full complement of 32 counters, as each one represents a distinct work of art in itself.

‘It’s absolutely fantastic detail. 32 little gems all add up to a reasonable sum.’

The guest expressed shock and asked, “Really? You mean to tell me that’s the total?”

Alastair the expert shared an unwelcome surprise with the owner: “I’m afraid the cost has significantly increased. It’s now between six and eight thousand pounds.”

The owner was left gobsmacked, ‘No! Golly’ before joking, ‘I need a bodyguard!’. 

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2024-07-25 21:18

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