An expert on Antiques Roadshow was surprised to learn a guest had paid just £17 for a "rare and special" antique.
An episode of the BBC show which was repeated last night saw Fiona Bruce and some experts visit Bodnant Garden in North Wales, where visitors came for antique valuations.
Among those who took part was a guest who had brought an object which she believed to be a "granary door," with her said to have purchased the item in San Francisco - and it turned out to be worth up to £600.
"There was a vendour selling African antiques and this one peaked my curiosity. I couldn't learn that much about it on the internet so I'm hoping [they] can help me," she said.
The item was assessed by antiques specialist Ronnie Archer-Morgan, who explained that it originates in west Africa and had belonged to the Lobi people in the region.
He speculated it probably dates back to the 20th century at the earlier, with him further revealing that the "very unusual" object is a form of currency from the area.
"I actually think it's currency. Obviously not pocket change, but in Africa, metal was used as barter and I believe this is currency. It's rare and I think very special," he explained.
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He explained there's interest in collecting African currency, before adding: "I think a collector would be prepared to pay between £400 and £600 for a piece like that."
The guest seemed quite impressed with the valuation, referring to the antique as "quite special" in response. She was then asked to share how much she had paid for it.
She revealed that it had only cost her $20 - which is roughly £17 - with the admission surprising expert Ronnie. Taken aback, he said "wow" before calling it a "good return."
The guest had expressed gratitude to Ronnie for providing some background on the antique, with her commenting: "I'm so grateful that you could teach me more about it."
The scene - originally ben broadcast last year - had prompted reactions from viewers, with one writing about it: "Thank goodness she didn’t leave her art in San Francisco."
You can catch up Antiques Roadshow through the BBC iPlayer. Another previous episode of the show is due to be repeated on BBC One this Sunday (July 24) from 7pm.
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