An Antiques Roadshow guest was left speechless after learning that a Phantom of the Opera mask, allegedly worn by Michael Crawford, could be worth up to £20,000. The item was brought to the BBC One show's spin-off, Unseen Treasures, at Shuttleworth House in Bedfordshire.
Expert Stephen Lane examined the mask, along with a crew jacket and script, brought by a guest whose late husband was an original cast member of the West End production in 1986. He received the mask after Michael Crawford left the show and kept it for decades.
Lane noted the heavy wear and makeup residue inside the mask, indicating extensive use. He explained that establishing whether the mask was worn by Crawford or a stand-in would significantly affect its value. Without confirmation, he estimated it at £5,000 to £10,000, but if proven to be Crawford's, the value could double to £10,000–£20,000.
The guest gasped at the valuation, and Lane described the mask as 'truly beautiful.' The episode highlights the enduring appeal of theatrical memorabilia from iconic productions.
