I inherited a useless tiny teapot – I gasped when I learned it was worth more than a car for a very lucky reason

ANTIQUES Roadshow guests were left gob-smacked after discovering the eye-watering valuation of an ‘uncommon’ teapot.

Antiques expert Duncan Campbell shared that he adored the precious item and was ‘envious’ of the couple that brought it in.

The latest episode of Antiques Roadshow followed presenter Fiona Bruce to Swanage Pier in Dorset, where Ducan was introduced to the miniature silver teapot.

The man explained to Duncan that the teapot was a family treasure handed down by his uncle.

The expert then told the man and his wife that he would “struggle” to replace the tiny item as it was unique and rare. 

The TV star explained: “This is the nicest teapot I’ve certainly ever seen on an Antiques Roadshow – arguably, I’ve ever seen. I absolutely adore it, and I’m more than a little bit envious!”

Ducan then asked the man how much he had brought it for.

The guest revealed: “I got it from my great uncle and aunt who didn’t have children.

“So they spent their money on collecting stuff, and this is one of the things that they collected.”

The man, who had no idea how much the item was worth, had abandoned it until one day, he took it to his local jeweller, his “eyes lit up”.

While inspecting the teapot, the Duncan said: “Well, it’s now in the hands of somebody whose eyes have been lit up ever since you showed it to me.

“I think it’s absolutely gorgeous. It’s a miniature of what they call a bullet teapot because of the shape.

“It’s been beautifully engraved on the top with a decorative band. 

“It’s made by a man called Paul de Lamerie, who is… I was going to say arguably… he’s not arguably, he is the most sought-after silversmith in English silversmithing.

“What he didn’t make with funny little toys like this. So, to find a Paul de Lamerie miniature is remarkably uncommon.

“It was made in 1728, which makes it George II… just.”

“There is sure to be one out there somewhere, even if I haven’t seen it.

“It’s going to cost you at least £12,000.”

Everybody in the audience, including the man’s wife, were left dumbfounded by the revelation and let out a surprised gasp.

The man who initially brought the item in for inspection contently replied: “Wow, I will have to reinsure it. I knew it was special, but it’s nice to have that confirmed!”

The BBC star finished with: “It’s absolutely beautiful. If there was one piece of silver I could take home from all the roadshows I’ve ever done, it would be this one.”

Antiques Roadshow is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.