Antiques can be found in the most unexpected places. From old attics and basements to thrift shops and garage sales, these rare and valuable items can turn up just about anywhere. Here are some stories of valuable antiques that were found in unlikely places.
A Rare Chinese Vase in a Shoebox
In 2010, a rare Chinese vase was found in an old shoebox in a small town in England. The vase was thought to be from the 18th century and was estimated to be worth over $1 million. The owners had inherited it from their grandparents and had no idea of its value. It was only when they decided to sell the vase at a local auction that its true worth was discovered.
A Painting by an Old Master in an Attic
In 2014, a painting by the 17th-century Italian artist Caravaggio was found in an attic in France. The painting, which was thought to be a copy, was actually the original work by the master artist. It was estimated to be worth over $136 million. The owners had no idea of the painting's value and had kept it hidden away for years.
A Valuable Watch at a Garage Sale
In 2015, a valuable watch was found at a garage sale in Phoenix, Arizona. The owner had no idea of its value and had priced it at just $5. The watch turned out to be a Patek Philippe, one of the most valuable and sought-after brands in the world. It was estimated to be worth over $50,000.
A Painting in a Thrift Shop
In 2017, a painting was found in a thrift shop in
New York City. The painting, which had been priced at just $35, turned out to be a work by the famous French artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir. It was estimated to be worth over $100,000.
A Rare Coin in a Change Jar
In 2019, a rare coin was found in a change jar in the United Kingdom. The coin, which was minted in 1644, was one of only 100 ever made. It was estimated to be worth over $300,000. The owner had no idea of the coin's value and had been using it to store loose change.
A Valuable Doll in a Storage Locker
In 2020, a valuable doll was found in a storage locker in the United States. The doll, which was from the 19th century, was a rare example of a Kestner doll, one of the most sought-after antique dolls in the world. It was estimated to be worth over $60,000. The owner had no idea of its value and had kept it in storage for years.
A Painting in a Trash Bin
In 2021, a painting was found in a trash bin in Germany. The painting, which was thought to be a copy, turned out to be an original work by the famous German artist Emil Nolde. It was estimated to be worth over $20,000. The owner had no idea of the painting's value and had thrown it away by mistake.
These stories show that valuable antiques can be found in the most unlikely places. It's important to keep an eye out for rare and valuable items, even in seemingly mundane settings. You never know what treasures you might come across.