The Antiques Roadshow guest was gutted as he learnt the news (Image: BBC)
expert Hugh Scully left a couple very disappointed as he confirmed they’d made a mistake with their antique – and it would cost them.
The star was shown a 1820s late Georgian/Regency period table made from mahogany wood, and was very excited when he first saw it.
However, on closer inspection, he had realised the wood had become slightly discoloured from where it had been placed in the sun in a bay window. He also noted that a leather top had been added, leaving him surprised.
The couple revealed they’d had the table valued by an expert a month or two previously, but had said they “didn’t believe the money they were told”.
As they confirmed they’d been given a valuation of £35,000, Mark responded: “That is too much, I’m afraid.
Hugh Scully on Antiques Roadshow issued some devastating news (Image: BBC)
“I think what makes a huge difference to this table is, unfortunately it’s a working table. Did you put this leather on?” To which the man replied it was put on before they bought it.
Hugh continued: “Somebody has, I’m afraid, made a big mistake with this. This was never designed to have a leather top,” as he pointed out the mahogany slab had been cut into.
He said: “That is going to make a huge difference to the value. I’m afraid I’ve already taken off quite a bit off your £35,000 as a result of that.”
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Hugh then went on to describe how much he liked the table, described the time period and quality of the wood, as he told the couple “I can see you falling in love with it”.
However, he added: “I’m going to have to revalue it. Minimum of £10,000, possibly £12,000 is more realistic. I can tell you much you have enjoyed it over the last 30 years. How much did you pay for it?”
The man confirmed he’d paid £600 for it, still making it an incredible profit-maker.
Antiques Roadshow airs Sundays at 8pm on BBC1.