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Hidden Greater Trail gems appraised at the “Antiques from the Attic-What’s it Worth?” show

A cornucopia of collectibles was dusted and polished for appraisal at the “Antiques from the Attic-What’s it Worth?” in Warfield
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Appraiser Peter Blundell brought his expertise to the Warfield Hall on Friday and Saturday. Blundell estimated the value of a treasure trove of items during each 15-minute session at the “Antiques-What’s It Worth?” show.


A cornucopia of collectibles was dusted and polished for appraisal at the “Antiques from the Attic-What’s it Worth?” show at the Warfield Hall on the weekend.

Over 40 avid antiquers not only received an estimated value for their family heirlooms, but in some cases, a funny anecdote and advice on use, by Peter Blundell.

Blundell, an advisory expert for the CBC Antiques Roadshow, was on hand to research the origin of treasures that ranged from: a Georgian silver teapot from 1825; an 1880’s rose-hued pottery wash set (with only one tiny chip); a child’s chair from 1890s Austria; and, a remarkable find to the appraiser himself, a Gasparo violin dating back to 16th century Europe.

Blundell couldn’t even speculate on the value of the rare Italian instrument, with only 80 known to exist today.

Instead, he passed along contact information to the flabbergasted violin heir, so the research could continue with the help of musical instrument experts, located in Vancouver.

The owner, who wished to remain anonymous, said that a grandfather passed down the instrument.

“Not much else is known about how he got it yet, other than a little history from a great-uncle.”

Blundell’s appraisal of the rare find drew a reaction from a  spectator.

“Oh my gosh, that’s the instrument the whole neighbourhood had to listen to being practiced, when I was a kid,” the voice quipped.

More abundant at the show, but less valuable, were the numerous silver pieces and tea sets that glittered under the appraiser’s light.

“Use it, enjoy it and have fun with it,” he said.

“And you can impress your neighbours by having one heck of a tea party with it, ” advised Blundell.

“Peter encouraging everyone to use their silver tea sets and make the most of them was fun,” said Sarah Benson, event organizer from the Trail Historical Society.

‘I can just imagine how many “grown up” tea parties will be taking place soon.”

Benson said that if there is enough interest, the historical society would again partner with the Rossland Historical Museum to make the show a recurring event in the community.



Sheri Regnier

About the Author: Sheri Regnier

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