The final auction of late BBC Flog It! presenter Michael Baggott's personal silver collection has concluded with a remarkable six-figure sale, significantly surpassing expert valuations and bringing the total proceeds from his estate to over £300,000.
Collection Exceeds Estimates at Woolley And Wallis Sale
On Tuesday, February 4, the remaining items from the esteemed antiques specialist's private holdings were offered at Woolley And Wallis's prestigious silver and objects of vertu auction. The sale achieved a total hammer price of £112,891, comfortably exceeding the pre-sale estimate range of £71,100 to £97,700. This successful event marks the third and concluding auction of Mr Baggott's collection, following two previous sales that together generated more than £200,000.
Notable Highlights from the Historic Sale
The auction featured several exceptional pieces that drew significant interest from collectors and institutions. A standout lot was an engraved James I West Country silver dish from 1620, crafted by the renowned silversmith Edward Harsell. This piece sold for £5,334, surpassing its upper estimate of £4,000.
Another notable item was a Charles II provincial two-handled porringer dating from 1672, made by silversmith Thomas Mangy, which fetched £3,810. Such porringers were historically used for consuming soft dishes like porridge or soup and often symbolised status and prosperity, sometimes being presented as christening gifts.
Historic Silver Ingot with Provenance Document
A particularly fascinating lot was a silver ingot from June 1840, which sold for £762 against a maximum estimate of £300. Unlike ornamental coins, ingots served practical purposes in storage, commerce, and manufacturing. This specific ingot was produced at Mr Treffry’s Smelting House in Par, Cornwall, during the peak of the region's metal production.
The piece was accompanied by a handwritten note confirming its historical significance, stating: “The first produce from Mr Treffry’s Smelting House at Par, by which the silver is separated from the copper raised at Fowey Consol mine. Mr Treffry June 1840.” This documentation added considerable provenance and value to the item.
Legacy of a Renowned Antiques Expert
Michael Baggott, who passed away in January 2025 at the age of 51, was a respected authority on antique silver, with particular expertise in early spoons, boxes, and provincial and continental pieces. His entire York silver collection comprised more than 550 items, spanning from the late 17th century to 1858, representing a lifetime of dedicated curation.
The successful conclusion of these auctions not only highlights the enduring market value of fine antique silver but also serves as a fitting tribute to Mr Baggott's knowledge and passion, which he shared with audiences through his television work on the popular BBC programme Flog It!
