Congratulations and thank you to everyone who participated in the Antiques on 8 Appraisal Day event April 22nd.  A total of $733.25 was raised for KUHT Channel 8, Houston Public Television. Here are some of the highlights:

An early visitor showed us a Civil War era “CS” belt plate that he found 15 years ago in a house under demolition in Galveston. The belt plate was in marvelous condition and determined to be genuine; it is easily worth $1000 to $10,000 with further research required to narrow the range.

Gino (pictured) brought in a pair of solid brass souvenir sconces featuring Grand Tour of Italy theme, signed by “Mojque of Sophia” ca 1840.  The paintings are oil on paper with mother of pearl accent and are in great condition.  Gino bought the pair at a flea market in Florida just four months ago for $20. Lara estimated them at $6K, possibly $10K or better at auction. Now that’s return on investment!

Terry brought in a spectacular Viner & Hall English silver plate on nickel service set and an accompanying silver tea set.  Approximately 150 pieces were housed in a “canteen” or case of oak plywood that appeared to have been custom made for the set.  Terry’s mother acquired the set on an antiquing trip over 20 years ago for an unknown price.  Notes provided by the original seller asserted a date of 1850 but Vivian pointed out that V&H was founded in 1901.  The set was made no later than WWII and is now thought to date to the 1920s.  Knife handles thought to be ivory were identified as celluloid.  The knives themselves are Sheffield stainless. The set was estimated $3K to $5K.

Our next Appraisal Day event is Thursday June 24th, 2010.
We hope to see you there for your own “Roadshow moment!”