Anderson & Garland Auctioneers are running free antiques valuation days across North Tyneside and Northumberland this February and March.
Events are scheduled in Tynemouth, Morpeth, and Hexham.
Members of the public are invited to bring items including silver, jewellery, watches, fine art, and collectables for expert assessment—no appointment necessary.
Fred Wyrley-Birch, director and head of jewellery, watches, and silver at Anderson & Garland, said: "Sadly, we often hear of people accepting low, on-the-spot offers without realising the true value of their items.
"Many of these companies then send the items to auction themselves.
"Selling through a reputable auction house gives you the best chance of a significant return.
"Our message is simple: don't accept less than your items are worth—let the open market decide and send your items to auction."
Recent valuation days have uncovered some astonishing finds.
At a previous event in Tynemouth, a rare 1781 Libertas Americana silver medal, brought in by a client unaware of its significance, was later sold at auction for £80,000.
Other notable discoveries include a sapphire and diamond ring, later identified as Burmese, which sold for £16,000, and a rare French violin found in Hexham, which fetched over £6,500.
The free valuation days will be held at Tynemouth Golf Club on February 27, Morpeth Golf Club on March 3, and the Beaumont Hotel in Hexham on March 5.
All events run from 10am to 3pm.
Assessments will be led by Mr Wyrley-Birch and senior specialist Georgina Norman, an auctioneer and valuer with expertise in jewellery, silver, costume and textiles, pictures, and works of art.
In 2024, Anderson & Garland invested in FGA training for all of its jewellery specialists.
Founded in 1840, the auctioneers work in the North of England and Scottish Borders.
The public are encouraged to simply bring their items to any of the valuation events, with no need to book.
For those who are unable to attend, free one-to-one appointments can be arranged at the Anderson & Garland showroom in Newcastle.
More information is available at www.andersonandgarland.com, by emailing info@andersonandgarland.com, or by calling 0191 430 3000.
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