An Antiques Roadshow expert was left utterly stunned after a guest cheekily presented her with a 'crude' item. BBC's Penny Britain found herself at a loss for words after she was asked to valuate a 'mummified dog's willy'.
Unexpected item after cigarette holder appraisal
During a previous episode of the BBC hit show, which originally aired in March 2011, the expert was joined by an elderly man who brought in a cigarette holder. The pensioner recalled receiving the cigarette holder during his childhood, explaining: 'It was given to me by a very old lady when I was about seven and I remember to this day that she was Austrian and she gave it to me in a cardboard box full of trinkets.'
Penny confirmed the item was indeed Austrian, originating from approximately 1900, and featured import marks indicating compliance with English standards. Although discovering his cigarette holder wasn't particularly valuable, with an estimate of just £100, the owner was unfazed as he made it clear he had no plans to sell it. Turning to the host he said: 'It’s beautiful, isn’t it?' Penny replied: 'Absolutely beautiful.'
The 'crude' reveal
However, as things appeared to be wrapping up, the man had another item he wanted to get checked. He reached into his pocket and put the item in Penny's hand. After examining it, Penny erupted into laughter, declaring: 'What on earth is that?'
The man joked: 'Could you tell me, is that worth £100 and made in Austria?' Speaking quietly, the guest said: 'I'll whisper in your ear.' He then revealed: 'It's a mummified dog's willy.'
Penny's response to this extraordinary item left those surrounding her in hysterics. Still in disbelief, she said: 'A mummified willy and I’m still holding it.' The expert swiftly handed back the guest as she confessed: 'I'm rendered entirely speechless.'
The guest proceeded to explain: 'It's been passed down the family literally for years.' While pointing at the item, he continued: 'This bit's a bit gnawed because the puppy got hold of it and my father, when it came to him, wanted to throw it away and I said, "You can't because it's so extraordinary"'
Penny quipped: 'My cabinet of curiosities.' The owner then asked: 'Is that worth £100?' Penny was in stitches as she replied: 'I don't think so.'
You can catch up on Antiques Road Show on BBC iPlayer.
