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Stashed items could be treasures worth cash
Published 12:07pm Tuesday, October 20, 2009The Treasure Hunters Roadshow, which came to Fergus Falls in November 2008, is back again this year. From today through Saturday, Oct. 24, people in the area can bring in collectibles to the AmericInn, Fergus Falls.
The event is free. Experts will take a close look at the collectible and then make a purchase offer. It’s up to the owner whether to accept the offer.
Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. today through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.
“What treasures are stashed around Fergus Falls? We’re about to find out,” said Matthew Enright, director of public relations and Roadshow representative. “People have the opportunity to talk to world renowned antique and collectible experts.”
The AmericInn, Fergus Falls, is the next stop on The Treasure Hunters Roadshow nationwide tour. Treasure hunters are hoping to see items such as coins and paper currency issued prior to 1965, toys, dolls, trains, vintage jewelry, old and modern musical instruments, war memorabilia, gold and silver jewelry, costume jewelry, advertising memorabilia, swords, knives, daggers and the unusual.
“What kind of treasures will be revealed during our trip? Let’s find out
together,” said Enright. “You or your next door neighbor just might be the person to find a jackpot in the attic or basement. Start digging now and be ready to have some fun and make some money.”
Recent finds include a 1960s vintage guitar, gold coins, Civil War era money hidden in the walls of a home, and much more.
“Collectors are very serious about their hobby,” said Enright, “so serious that they’ll pay a lot of money for the items they’re looking for. Nearly all coins, vintage jewelry, musical instruments and toys made prior to 1965 are highly sought after by collectors. Old tin windup toys from the late 1800s through the 1960s also are in great demand.”
The Treasure Hunters Roadshow is a place where anyone can connect with collectors from around the globe. Quality prices are being paid for 1950s and 1960s era electric and acoustic guitars. Train sets made by Lionel, American Flyer, Marklin and others have the potential to fetch high prices.
“Our treasure hunters make offers based on what our collectors are willing to pay,” said Enright. “Then, when someone decides to sell, they get paid on the spot and our treasure hunters send the item to the collector, at their expense.”
Since 1996 the Treasure Hunters Roadshow has visited more than 600 cities throughout the United States and Canada. Organizers offer some tips for people bringing in their collectibles this week at the AmericInn.
n Don’t clean the antique or collectible. You could do serious damage to any finishes or the item itself.
n Expect to wait a few minutes, depending on the crowd. Bring a book and also enjoy watching other Roadshow appraisals at the event.
n Bring along all broken jewelry. Gold prices are high. Bring as many items as you want. There is no limit.
n Any gold, silver and platinum coins are extremely sought after by collectors. All silver dollars, halves, quarters and dimes made before 1965 are surprisingly valuable today.
