A collection of antique silver items discovered by chance in an Edinburgh family's attic has sold for almost £60,000 at auction, more than double the pre-sale estimate of £23,000.
Discovery and Auction Details
More than 100 pieces of British and continental silver, dating from the early 18th to early 20th centuries, were found inside dusty chests as the family prepared to sell a home in Edinburgh's New Town. The family, who wish to remain anonymous, had no knowledge of the collection's existence or value, as it had been packed away for nearly a century.
The collection was auctioned at Elmwood's auction house in London, where it achieved a total of £59,761. The most expensive single lot was Lot 15, a set of fine Danish vintage cutlery, which sold for £5,200.
Family Reaction
A spokesman for the Edinburgh family said: 'We're thrilled with the outcome and completely overwhelmed by the response to the collection. What began as an unexpected discovery while clearing the family home has turned into an extraordinary journey. It's wonderful to know these pieces, which lay hidden for so many decades, have found new homes with people who will appreciate their history and craftsmanship.'
The family had been clearing out their mother's home, which had been in the same family for generations. Different members are thought to have added to the collection over the years, but knowledge of it faded over time.
Auctioneer's Perspective
Joe Kendrick, head of sales at Elmwood's auctioneers, said: 'We knew this was a special collection from the moment we first examined the pieces from the chests, but today's result exceeded even our expectations. Achieving £59,761 against a pre-sale estimate of £23,000 demonstrates the enduring appeal of fresh-to-market collections with exceptional provenance. Bidders responded not only to the quality and rarity of the silver, but also to the remarkable story behind its discovery after almost a century hidden away in an Edinburgh attic. It has been a privilege to bring these pieces back into the public eye and to see them begin a new chapter with collectors around the world.'
