‘Maybe we can create Monday magic together’
VALUATIONS EVERY MONDAY
A RENOWNED South Derbyshire auction expert is set to launch a Monday magic treasure hunt.
Charles Hanson, who runs Hansons Auctioneers in Etwall, will be offering free antique valuations every Monday from 4pm to 6pm at the saleroom on Heage Lane.
Hansons has sold everything from Queen Victoria’s bloomers for £4,500 to a Sooty glove puppet for a recordbreaking £14,000.
Then there was the Chinese vase used as a doorstop which made £650,000; Faberge flowers which achieved £400,000; and a Harry Potter first edition which soared to £68,000.
“My work takes me all over the country, but I’m keen to make myself available to the people of Derbyshire and surrounding counties every week,” said Charles.
“I have chosen the 4pm to 6pm time slot to assist people who may wish to drop by after work.
“Many of my most important finds have been made in my home county. I will never forget the South Derbyshire gentleman who tentatively brought in a box of objects inherited from his parents.
“Hidden among items of relatively little value was a rare Chinese wine ewer which looked like a small teapot. It went on to sell for £390,000.”
Charles added that many people have something of value and simply don’t know it.
This could include everything from militaria, music and sports memorabilia to gold coins, toys, books and jewellery, which can make hundreds or even thousands of pounds at auction. “Clients bring me items found in their lofts, garages and wardrobes, often inherited, that spark global bidding battles,” he added. “People are fascinated by antique finds and curious to know if they own something special.
“I came up with a just-forfun Track The Treasure quiz on X. I share a photo of charity shop items and ask which one is valuable. People love to guess. It gains huge interaction. “Whatever you have at home I’d like to see it. Right now gold and jewellery is particularly sought after as gold prices have hit record
Clients bring me items found in their lofts, garages and wardrobes that spark global bidding battles
Charles Hanson
highs.
“Gold charm bracelets can sell for more than £1,000. We’re also seeing strong demand for Royal Crown Derby Imari 1128 ceramics. In Hansons’ April sales, an Imari tea set made £700 and a comport dish £600.”
Unusual finds coming up in May include a rare Art Deco Movado American watch, circa 1935, estimate £500 to £800, and a circa 1935 Emerson AU190 radio, estimate £1,500.
Charles added: “Come and see me. Maybe we can create some Monday Magic together.”
He will be available every Monday at Hansons from May 13. To find out more, or to book an appointment, call 01283 733988, or email service@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk.