Antiques Road Trip favourite Angus Ashworth has revealed the two historic military medals that represent his ultimate 'holy grail' discovery, with one potentially fetching an eye-watering sum at auction.
The BBC star, also known for presenting The Yorkshire Auction House and Yorkshire Heritage Hero, is a passionate military history enthusiast. He disclosed that his dream finds would be a Victoria Cross or an Army Gold Medal from the Napoleonic Wars.
The Ultimate Military Medal Hunt
"I love military history, so my dream find would be a Victoria Cross or an Army Gold Medal from the Napoleonic Wars," Ashworth stated. "That's the holy grail for me."
He provided a significant valuation for one of these coveted items, estimating that an Army Gold Cross medal could be worth between £60,000 and £80,000. This highlights the extraordinary value and rarity of such historical artefacts in today's collectors' market.
Unearthing Treasure in Country Houses and Garden Sheds
In his work on Yorkshire Heritage Hero, Ashworth explores stately homes to help families uncover valuable items that can fund vital restoration projects. He noted a major shift in public interest, observing that traditional 'antiques sales' have been replaced by the more evocative 'country house sale'.
"People have really bought into the idea of this quintessentially British interior look," he said. This fascination fuels a thriving second-hand market for dark furniture, lighting, soft furnishings, and even garden ornaments.
Ashworth offered a surprising tip for potential treasure hunters: "There's one place in particular worth checking: the garden shed." He explained that decorative garden pieces like plant pots and benches are now in high demand at auction.
Nostalgia Drives Modern Collecting Trends
The expert also identified a powerful trend driving the antiques and collectables market: nostalgia. Items from the 1990s, such as vintage games consoles and first edition Harry Potter books, are highly sought after by buyers looking to recapture their youth.
This sentiment even extends to the classic car market. "The market for people who dreamed of owning an MG has shrunk, while Ford Escorts are now far more desirable because that's what people remember wanting," Ashworth explained.
His insights follow a memorable moment on Antiques Roadshow last month, where a guest refused to sell his father's valuable Speedmaster watch despite learning its high worth, demonstrating the deep personal value often attached to heirlooms.
